MOUNT VERNON — The Summer Meal Home Delivery Program courtesy of the Mid-Ohio Food Collective will begin on June 1 in Knox County and run through Aug. 12.

Children ages 1–18 living in eligible rural areas may qualify. Eligibility is based on location and household income.

Below is a question-and-answer about the program.

QUESTION: What is the Summer Meal Home Delivery Program?

ANSWER: This program provides free meals for children during the summer months, delivered directly to your home so your child has consistent access to nutritious food when school is out.

Q: What meals will my child receive?

A: Children ages 1 to 18 living in eligible rural areas may qualify. Eligibility is based on location and household income.

Each enrolled child will receive a weekly meal bundle that includes:

  • 7 breakfasts
  • 7 lunches

That’s a full week of meals provided in one delivery.

Q: How often are meals delivered?

A: Meals are delivered once per week, and each delivery includes a full 7-day supply of meals for each child.

Q: Do I need to be home for delivery?

A: No. You do not need to be home to receive your delivery. Meals will be safely dropped off at your home.

Q: What if my family will be away (vacation, camp, etc.)?

A: If your child will be away for any period of time, please notify our team in advance. We will pause your deliveries and resume when you return.

Q: Who is eligible to receive meals?

A: Children ages 1–18 living in eligible rural areas may qualify. Eligibility is based on location and household income.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: There is no cost to families. Meals are completely free for eligible participants.

Q: Do I need to provide proof of income?

A: Income is self-declared.

Q: How do I sign up?

A: Scan the QR code on the flyer at the bottom of this story and complete the Parent/Guardian Consent Form and Income Eligibility Form. The process is quick and takes just a few minutes.

Q: What information will I need to provide?

A: Household size, income information (self-declared), delivery address, and contact information. All information is kept confidential.

Q: When does the program run?

A: June 1 to Aug. 12.

Q: Is there a limit to how many families can participate?

A: Yes. Space may be limited, so families are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible.

Q: Can I choose meals or request substitutions?

A: Meals are pre-packaged and planned in advance. Substitutions may be limited.

Q: What if my child has food allergies or dietary needs?

A: We may have limited ability to accommodate special dietary needs. Please contact us with any concerns prior to enrolling.

Q: How will I know if I’m approved?

A: After submitting your forms, our team will review your information and contact you with approval status, delivery schedule, and next steps.

Q: Who can I contact if I have questions?

A: Yeva Mitchell. Email: Kitchen@mofc.org. Phone: 614-984-5493

We’re here to make sure your child has the meals they need all summer — without the extra stress.