When times get tough, communities like ours remind us what it really means to look out for each other. This fall, several programs across South Jersey are stepping up to make sure no child goes hungry — offering completely free meals (no cost, no purchase required) for kids and families who need support.
Whether it’s through local schools, food banks, or neighborhood programs, help is closer than you think. 💛
🥗 1️⃣ Food Bank of South Jersey – Kids’ Meal Program
The Food Bank of South Jersey provides free, pre-packed meals for children to take home on weekends and after school when school meals aren’t available. Each meal pack includes nutritious, easy-to-eat foods — from cereal and fruit cups to ready-to-eat meals.
📍 Counties served: Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Salem
📅 When: Ongoing throughout the school year
🔗 Learn more / find local distribution sites.
🥛 2️⃣ NJ School Meals for All – Free Breakfast and Lunch
The School Meals for All NJ initiative ensures that every student in participating public schools can receive free breakfast and lunch — regardless of income. It’s part of the state’s ongoing effort to eliminate child hunger during the school year.
📍 Where: Participating NJ school districts (check your district’s website)
📅 When: Every school day during the 2025–2026 school year
🔗 Details here
🥫 3️⃣ Community Food Pantries & Family Meal Sites
Many churches and community centers across South Jersey are offering free meal days — no questions asked. These programs welcome families and kids to enjoy a hot, balanced meal in a safe and friendly space.
A few active locations include:
Cathedral Kitchen (Camden, NJ): Hot meals served daily.
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church (Burlington, NJ): Weekly community dinner nights.
Center for Family Services (Various NJ Locations): Offers food assistance and meal support for families.
🧺 4️⃣ NJ Department of Agriculture – Child & Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)
This statewide initiative supports free meals and snacks for children in afterschool programs, daycare centers, and shelters. The goal is simple: make sure every child in New Jersey has access to nutritious food year-round.
📍 Available through: Local child care centers and nonprofit partners
📅 When: Ongoing (check eligibility by county)
🔗 Learn more
❤️ 5️⃣ NJ Food Security Portal
The state’s official site helps families find nearby free food pantries, meal sites, and distribution events by ZIP code. It’s updated frequently and lists verified free options — no payments or purchases needed.
No one should ever have to choose between paying bills and feeding their family. South Jersey’s network of nonprofits, schools, and food banks is here to make sure every child heads into fall feeling nourished and cared for. 🧡
So — do you know a family who could use this list? Share it with them today. Because when one of us is fed, all of us are stronger.