As summer break gets underway, many families face a challenge that often goes unnoticed once the school year ends: ensuring children continue to have access to nutritious meals each day. To help bridge that gap, Lytle Independent School District is once again offering free breakfasts and lunches to all children ages 1 through 18 through its Summer Food Program.

The program provides an important resource for families across the region, and one of the most significant details is that participation is not limited to Lytle ISD students or residents. Any child within the eligible age range can receive meals at no cost, making the program a valuable community-wide service during the summer months.

Why This Matters for Families

For many children, school cafeterias provide a dependable source of healthy meals during the academic year. Summer meal programs help ensure that access to nutrition continues when classes are not in session.

Programs like the one offered by Lytle ISD support children's health, growth, and readiness for the upcoming school year while also helping families manage household food expenses during the summer months. By opening participation to all children ages 1–18, the district is helping create a stronger safety net for families throughout Atascosa County and neighboring communities.

Free Breakfast and Lunch Available at Two Campuses

Children can enjoy free meals at both the Lytle High School Cafeteria and the Lytle Elementary Cafeteria.

• Program Dates: May 29 – June 29, 2026

• Days: Monday through Friday

• Breakfast: 7:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.

• Lunch: 12:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Families are encouraged to bring their children, meet up with friends, and take advantage of the free meal service throughout the month.

Open to All Children Ages 1–18

A common misconception about summer meal programs is that participants must attend the sponsoring school district. Lytle ISD officials emphasize that children do not need to live within district boundaries to participate.

That means families visiting relatives, living in nearby communities, or seeking additional summer nutrition resources are welcome to take advantage of the program.

Supporting a Healthy Summer

Beyond providing meals, summer nutrition programs help maintain healthy routines for children during the break from school. Access to balanced breakfasts and lunches can contribute to better physical health, support learning retention, and reduce food insecurity during a time when many school-based services are unavailable.

For parents and caregivers, the program offers peace of mind knowing that nutritious meal options are available at no cost throughout much of the summer.

Need More Information?

Families with questions about the Summer Food Program can contact the Lytle ISD Child Nutrition Department:

• Phone: 830-709-5120, Ext. 1600

• Email: amie.carrillo@lytleisd.org 

Lytle ISD notes that the Summer Food Program is operated in accordance with federal civil rights laws and USDA regulations. The district is an equal opportunity provider and offers accommodations and language assistance for participants who need them.

What Happens Next

The Summer Food Program will continue through June 29, providing daily breakfast and lunch opportunities for children throughout the area. Families interested in participating can simply visit either meal site during serving hours.

As communities continue to look for ways to support children and families during the summer months, programs like this one demonstrate how local schools can remain a vital resource long after the final bell rings.

Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for more local education updates, family resources, and community news from Lytle and surrounding areas.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.