Mendocino County’s Ukiah Unified offering free summer meals

By Sydney Fishman | Bay City News

Ukiah Unified School District’s (UUSD) Free Summer Meals program not only provides students with free meals during summer break, but also helps low-income families save money and feel secure knowing their children have a consistent place to get their daily nutrition.

The district is continuing its tradition of providing breakfast and/or lunch, depending on the site, to kids and their families. UUSD said 80% of its students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, meaning they come from low-income households. Summer often puts an extra burden on families struggling to afford nutritious, well-balanced meals.

Julie Beer, UUSD’s food service coordinator, said even residents who are not students are eligible for the program. She said income verification isn’t required for people to grab a free meal.

“This really helps families because you can receive breakfast and lunch,” Beer said.

Beer noted it’s helpful that many schools are within walking distance for families. “It makes it easier for people to access food for their families.”

According to the UUSD website, seven locations across Ukiah are serving meals to community members this summer. Beer said having sites throughout the city makes it easier for more families to access the meals, regardless of where they live.

“Some people might not have food at home, so this way, they can at least go get a breakfast bagel each day while their kids are out of school for summer break,” she said.

UUSD’s Free Summer Meals program will be offered until August 8, with some locations ending service July 17. To see the Free Summer Meals program schedule and to visit a location in your area, go to the UUSD website at uusd.net/apps/news/article/2080627.

Other summer meal sites in Mendocino County include schools in Anderson Valley, Redwood Valley and Fort Bragg. To see other locations serving free meals, visit cde.ca.gov/ds/sh/sn/ap/summersites.asp?year=2025&countyname=Mendocino.