Summer can be a challenging time for families to make ends meet, especially when school meals aren’t available. That’s why free summer meal programs are here to make things a little easier and help ensure your kids have access to healthy, nutritious food while school is out. These meals are available for all children and teens 18 and under, with no sign-up or paperwork needed. Just stop by the closest L.A. location and enjoy a free meal in a welcoming, kid-friendly environment. It’s a simple way to help your family stay nourished and supported this summer.
Here are all of the free summer meals programs around L.A.:
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🏙️City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation & Parks
This summer, local children and teenagers will have access to a healthy and nutritious free lunch at over 100 Los Angeles City parks. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and is run by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation & Parks.
Food is served on a first-come, first-served basis during lunch hours Monday through Friday. Please keep in mind that all meals must be eaten on site.
🗓️When: June 13 – August 2, 2025
📍Location: To find a location nearest you, check the L.A. City Parks website, or call the office directly at 818-346-2700, or text “Summer Meals” to 97779.
🌐More Information: L.A. City Parks website
📚Los Angeles County Libraries
This summer, children and teens ages 18 and under can enjoy free lunches at select LA County Library locations. Meals are served June 16 through August 8, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., on Monday–Friday or Tuesday–Friday, depending on the site. Lunch is available first come, first served, so be sure to arrive on time! Please keep in mind that all meals must be eaten on site.
🗓️When: June 16 – August 8, 2025
📍Location: To find a location nearest you, check the summer schedule here.
🌐More Information: Los Angeles County Libraries website
🌲 Los Angeles County Parks
Children and teens ages 18 and under can enjoy nutritious lunches and snacks at 48 LA County Parks. Meals include healthy options like fruits, vegetables, seeds, and dairy items such as milk, string cheese, and yogurt. Please keep in mind that all meals must be eaten on site.
🗓️When: June 17 – August 9, 2025
📍Location: To find a location nearest you, check the summer schedule here.
🌐More Information: Los Angeles County Parks website
🎒 Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD)
The Los Angeles Unified School District provides free breakfast and lunch to all youth ages 1–18 on summer weekdays at local schools and community sites. Please keep in mind that all meals must be eaten on site.
🗓️When: June 17 – July 25, 2025
📍Location: To find a location nearest you, check their directory here.
🌐More Information: LAUSD website
🤝 L.A. Regional Food Bank
The L.A. Regional Food Bank is providing a free breakfast and lunch for all children at 19 Los Angeles locations. Dates and times vary, so be sure to check their schedule. Please keep in mind that all meals must be eaten on site.
🗓️When: June 9 – August 15, 2025
📍Location: To find a location nearest you, check the directory here.
🌐More Information: L.A. Regional Food Bank website