The program operates at two locations: Jefferson Branch Library at 1500 E. Villa Street and Villa Parke Community Center Branch Library at 363 E. Villa Street, Second Floor.
During the 2024 summer season, Pasadena’s program delivered 1,619 free meals to children while engaging families in reading activities. The initiative also supported 17 youth interns and volunteers, providing them with valuable work experience.
“What I like most about the library is the programs they have for my son, he gets to learn and enjoy meals. Also he has a lot of fun, he loves coming to the library.” said one participating parent.
Beyond meal service, the program offers STEAM projects, arts and crafts, nutrition education, wellness programs, movies, games, music, and play activities. Children and teens also receive books to build their home libraries.
The statewide initiative served over 270,000 meals at 189 libraries across California in summer 2023, while distributing 125,000 books to children. According to the Food Research & Action Center, only one in six California children who qualify for free or reduced-price school lunch receive summer meals.
Food insecurity affects 10.7% of new parents in Pasadena according to the 2022 Pasadena Maternal Health Assessment. Teen volunteers develop workforce readiness skills while assisting with meal service.
“I am so very grateful for the meals. We were hungry and you fed me.” said one program participant.
The Summer Food Service Program, administered by the California Department of Education and funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, reimburses providers for administrative and operational costs. Applications for the Core Program are non-competitive, meaning all participating libraries with approved applications receive funding.
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