Nourishing Our Community: Marietta City Schools’ Free Summer Meals Program

As the sun casts its warm embrace over Marietta, a heartwarming initiative takes root within the city’s schools. Marietta City Schools (MCS) has opened its arms wide, offering free summer meals to children through the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) program. From June 3 to July 26, nutritious meals are available at no cost to all children aged 18 and under, as well as adults over 18 with state-defined mental or physical disabilities1.

The program’s simplicity is its strength: no registration, no income thresholds—just wholesome meals for those who need them. Whether it’s a breakfast to kickstart the day or a lunchtime feast, MCS ensures that no child goes hungry during the summer break. The cafeteria doors swing open, inviting laughter, camaraderie, and the joy of shared meals.

Behind this noble endeavor stands Cindy Culver, MCS School Nutrition Director. Her commitment echoes through the hallways: “We are deeply committed to serving our community, and that commitment doesn’t stop when the school year does.” The SSO program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), bridges the gap left by the absence of consistent school meals during the summer months. It’s a lifeline for families, a beacon of hope for those who rely on school nutrition programs.

The 70s theme may not be overt, but the spirit of community echoes the era’s ideals. Just as the 70s grappled with societal challenges, today’s Marietta faces its own. Yet, within the walls of MCS, resilience prevails. Families gather, children laugh, and plates are filled with sustenance and love.

So, if you find yourself near one of the 34 citywide locations, step inside. Taste the compassion, share a smile, and know that Marietta City Schools nourishes more than just bodies—it feeds dreams, aspirations, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.