Supporting summer meals: fueling kids all year long — even when school is out!

Dairy West is proud to support summer meal programs with resources that help school nutrition professionals keep kids nourished and engaged during the summer months. Whether you're serving meals in the park, at schools or through grab-and-go programs, we’re here to make it easier — and more fun — for you and the families you serve.

What We Offer:

• NEW! Farm-to-Fridge Puzzle Activity — A fun, farm-to-fridge themed puzzle designed to provide an interactive way for families to engage at summer meals kick-off events and again at home!
  • This activity includes a large floor-size puzzle perfect for setting up as an educational station or booth at your summer meals site — making learning where milk comes from hands-on and fun for all ages. Plus, there's a smaller take-home version for kids, so the experience doesn’t end when the event does. We also have additional educational materials available to deepen learning and spark conversations about nutrition. Quantities are limited and available through our materials request form.

• Cultural Summer Meals Toolkit — These downloadable, printable resources support culturally relevant menus and meaningful community connection. Passports encourage children to learn more about different countries and food they love. Getting their passport stamped at your summer meals encourages increased participation. That's a win for everyone!

  • Passport Activity Booklet

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  • Sandwich Board 24x36

  • Passport Stickers - Avery 94505

We know summer meals look different in every community — and we’re excited to partner with you to make your program shine.

See it in Action: Cultural Summer Meals & Summer Kick-Off Success

Learn how West Ada school district in Idaho used culturally inspired menus and community partnerships to boost summer engagement and earn national recognition.

Read the story »

Additionally, programs like Bonneville School District’s Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) in Idaho show how summer meals not only provide essential nutrition, but also foster community connection and increase participation when paired with creative engagement. Thanks to support from local organizations and businesses, including Dairy West, Hillview Elementary alone served a record 358 meals in one day at their summer meals kickoff event in 2024, with overall June summer meals participation increasing by over 35% for breakfast and 23% for lunch compared to the previous year!

Have a success story from your summer meals program to share? Reach out to Deena Benson – we'd love to hear it!

Stay Connected with Fellow School Foodservice Professionals

Looking for ideas, inspiration or answers from peers? Join our Dairy West School Foodservice Facebook Group — a space to ask questions, share success stories and celebrate the important work you do!