As summer begins, families across Connecticut have access to important resources designed to help children stay healthy, connected, and supported while school is out.
Through the USDA's Summer Nutrition Programs, children and teens ages 18 and younger can receive free, nutritious meals at hundreds of locations throughout Connecticut this summer. No registration, application, income verification, or identification is required. Children simply show up and enjoy a healthy meal at no cost to their families.
The Connecticut State Department of Education encourages families to use the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder beginning in late June to locate participating meal sites near them. Because locations and schedules may change during the summer, families should check site information before visiting.
Many eligible families will also automatically receive Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (S-EBT) benefits, which help cover the cost of groceries when school is not in session. Families who believe they may qualify but have not received benefits can learn more and apply through the State of Connecticut's S-EBT program.
In addition to meeting children's nutritional needs, Connecticut is reminding families that summer is also an important time to support children's emotional well-being. The state's "Connection Is the Key to a Healthy Summer" campaign encourages families to help children stay connected to family, friends, community activities, and trusted support systems. Research consistently shows that young people who feel connected are more likely to thrive both now and in the future.
Families can strengthen these connections by spending time together, participating in community programs, visiting libraries and parks, exploring summer employment opportunities, and checking in regularly about how children are feeling. The campaign also reminds parents that sudden changes in mood or behavior may be signs that a child needs additional support.
Immediate mental health assistance is available statewide. Families can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, call 211 (Option 1, then Option 1 again) to reach Youth Mobile Crisis services, or visit Connecticut's Urgent Crisis Centers for in-person support. Additional mental and behavioral health resources are available through Connecting to Care Connecticut.
At Carver, we know that summer learning, enrichment, nutrition, and positive relationships all work together to help young people succeed. We encourage families to take advantage of these valuable statewide resources while enjoying a safe, healthy, and connected summer.
For more information about Carver's summer programs, including camps, summer transition programs, and academic enrichment opportunities serving more than 1,000 local youth this summer, visit our website or contact our team.