WAILUKU, Hawaii — Maui County is taking steps to ensure no children go hungry while school is out by providing free meals at its Summer PALS sites on Maui and Molokai.

Youths 18 years of age and younger can receive a free nutritious meal through the Summer Food Service Program, a federal program available in eligible areas.

During the regular school year, many children in Maui County receive free or reduced-price meals. However, when school is out, many of these children do not get enough to eat. The PALS program will offer meals in “approved areas by federal standards,” according to a Maui County news release.

Meals are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and may not be available on specific days.

Contact the PALS office at 808-270-7404 for information about PALS locations offering meals, meal schedules and instructions on how to participate.

The County of Maui PALS program assists parents who need affordable child care that accommodates their work schedules. It’s administered by the Department of Parks and Recreation’s Recreation and Support Services Division and is on the islands of Maui, Molokai and Lanai. The PALS program is a participant in the USDA’s Summer Food Service Program.

Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii. She can be reached at sarah.yamanaka@charter.com.