Food Resources for Families This Summer

Fresh produce

Families have many options for accessing fresh, healthy food throughout the summer. Local food pantries and community meal sites offer free groceries and prepared meals, while farmers markets provide seasonal produce and other local goods.

Resources for families include:

  • Rhode Island Community Food Bank – Find nearby food pantries and meal programs.
  • Farm Fresh RI – Explore local farmers markets and fresh, seasonal foods.
  • Hasbro Children’s Free Produce Distribution – Weekly distribution of fresh produce from local farms will take place on the following dates in the Hasbro Children’s Lowel Level Garden from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.: July 23, August 13, September 10, October 8.
  • Sun Bucks – Starting June 2026, eligible Rhode Island school-age children will receive SUN Bucks (Summer EBT), a one-time $120 grocery benefit, with eligibility notices sent in spring and early summer. More information here in in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
  • Rhode Island Summer Food Programs – Find free food programs for you and your family.
  • The Healthy Eating and Active Living (HEAL) – The HEAL program is a statewide initiative dedicated to preventing chronic diseases by making nutritious food and safe, physical activity culturally appealing, affordable, and accessible to all Rhode Islanders.
  • The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program – The SFMNP provides low-income seniors access to local foods while supporting Rhode Island farmers and expanding local agricultural markets.
  • RI Office of Healthy Aging – Seniors (60+) can enjoy lunch with friends at meal sites across the state.

These resources are available to help support families all season long.