I. Summer meal sites should be fun and safe community spaces for children and families where children can receive meals in a welcoming and stigma-free environment.

II. At open sites, ALL kids 18 and under are welcome to a meal regardless of
whether they go to the local school or live in the area.

III. Respect and dignity are as important as food and health. All people should be welcomed and treated respectfully. Food and culture are deeply entwined, including what is considered good food, how the food is prepared and the social experience of eating.

IV. At the best summer food sites, food is a part of programming and activities, and the community considers the summer food site their own.

V. Rules, regulations and policies should be clearly understood, displayed and communicated, along with information on who to contact with concerns or requests. The system should be as non-judgmental as possible and leave room for both positive and negative feedback.

VI. All children deserve access to good, healthy food that they enjoy. An “if they’re hungry enough they’ll eat it” attitude is disrespectful to children and their personal and medical needs.