Every summer across the U.S., more than 3 million children eat for free at more than 30,000 sites, from schools to recreation centers to migrant worker camps. It's a valuable resource for families who are struggling, and, critics say, a nice freebie for those who aren't.
The "Summer Fun Cafe" in Northern California and others like it are funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in areas where at least half the children qualify for free lunches during the regular school year.
But come summer, anyone 18 and under can pull up a chair to Uncle Sam's table.
"There's no income requirement, no enrollment, no paperwork," says Monique Stovall, nutrition director for the San Juan Unified School District outside Sacramento, Calif. "All children in the community in that age range can come eat with us for free." Signs around the district headquarters advertise there is no eligibility requirement, and all kids are encouraged to take advantage.
