The City of Albuquerque announced on June 3 that its Summer Meals Program has returned, offering free breakfasts and lunches to children and teens ages 1–18 at more than 95 locations throughout the city. The program aims to bridge the nutrition gap for families while schools are closed during the summer months.
The Summer Meals Program, which began over 50 years ago at a local community center, now serves thousands of young people each year across Albuquerque. “Summer should be a time for kids to play, grow and not worry about where their next meal will come from,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Through our Summer Meals Program, we’re helping families access nutritious food opportunities in neighborhoods across the city.”
Meal service is scheduled to begin at various parks on June 3, with additional service starting at community centers on June 15. Meals are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis during designated times.
In addition to providing meals, many sites will host Story Time in the Park through a partnership with Albuquerque Public Schools. This initiative brings books, literacy activities, and read-aloud experiences directly into neighborhoods. Children attending Story Time sessions can listen to stories from educators, participate in hands-on activities, and take home books for their personal libraries.
“For more than five decades, we have invested in ensuring children have access to healthy meals during the summer. We look forward to continuing that tradition while expanding opportunities for learning and connection throughout Albuquerque,” said Director Jess Martinez.
Families seeking information about meal locations, schedules, or Story Time events can visit cabq.gov/summermeals. The City of Albuquerque maintains historic venues such as the KiMo Theatre—a landmark blending Pueblo Deco architecture—serving as cultural gathering spaces for decades, according to the theater’s history page. The city’s government operates under a council structure focused on setting goals and preserving civic traditions, according to its official website.
