by Aisosa Udoh, Hunger Outreach Program Specialist, Community Engagement
Every summer, thousands of kids across Oklahoma lose access to the school meals they rely on. Every summer, organizations, tribes, schools, and community leaders step up to make sure families don’t face seasonal hunger. At Hunger Free Oklahoma, we’re proud to be part of this team—helping build connections, share resources, and create spaces where partners can learn from each other. Our goal is to make it easy for more partners to engage in Summer Meals opportunities.
Over the last two years, the Summer Meals Regional Convenings have grown into something much larger than a training day. They’ve become a true gathering place: a room full of energy, problem solving, and familiar faces from every corner of the state who all want the same thing—stronger, more accessible summer meal programs for Oklahoma kids.
2024: The Spark That Started It All
In 2024, we hosted our first round of regional convenings—and wow did it set the tone! Partners showed up ready to collaborate, troubleshoot, and turn big ideas into real impact. The conversations uncovered gaps, surfaced innovations, and reminded everyone of one important truth:
We’re stronger when we work together.
Those first convenings built the foundation for stronger coordination, deeper relationships, and big momentum heading into 2025.
2025: Growing Bigger, Bolder, and More Connected
The 2025 Summer Meals Regional Convenings took everything we learned in 2024 and made them even better: more collaboration, more momentum, and more partners in the room. With direction from the Oklahoma Childhood Food Security Coalition (OK CFSC), our team hit the road for three full-day events in Woodward, McAlester, and Ponca City.
And let’s just say: Oklahoma showed up.
Why These Convenings Matter
Summer meals only work when everyone is connected—schools, nonprofits, tribes, and state agencies. This year, our goals were simple and ambitious:
- Make sure more kids have access to summer feeding sites
- Strengthen communication across regions
- Boost participation beyond 2019 levels
- Expand non-congregate meal access, especially in rural areas
- Share tools, tips, and creative solutions
- Break down silos and build shared ownership
Across every region, partners showed up ready to learn, problem-solve, and build something stronger together.
Where We Went — and What We Learned
Woodward
Thirty-one partners jumped into conversations on non-congregate meals, SNAP outreach, policy updates, and community engagement. Presenters sparked ideas that had attendees swapping solutions all day long.
McAlester
Thirty-five partners, including strong tribal representation, brought depth and honesty to discuss access, culture, and long-term program sustainability.
Ponca City
Another 31 participants wrapped up the series with one of our most diverse rooms yet. Tribal leaders, schools, nonprofits, and community partners came ready with ideas and a “let’s try this together” spirit.
The Big Wins of 2025
Across all three convenings, we saw:
- Stronger cross-region communication
- Clearer non-congregate best practices
- Better alignment between policy and implementation
- Deeper collaboration with tribal and rural partners
- Practical tools to strengthen site and sponsor capacity
In short: Oklahoma is getting better at feeding kids, and we’re doing it together.
2026: Looking Ahead — Collaboration at the Center
As we look ahead to 2026, our focus remains on connection and collaboration. This year, we’re bringing partners together from health, education, community organizations, local leaders, and families to strengthen food security across Oklahoma. We’re creating more opportunities for shared leadership, empowering partners to lead working groups, shape agendas, and share their expertise. With better tools, clear communication, and thoughtful meeting planning, we aim to build an energized, aligned network, and we’re excited to expand our reach with new convenings in Western Oklahoma to ensure every region has a voice.
Moving Forward Together
From 2024 through 2026, one thing is clear: our strength comes from collaboration. By designing toolkits, facilitating conversations, and supporting partners, we’re building a more connected, informed, and impactful network. Together, we’re shaping for a future where every voice is heard, every partnership is valued, and every effort moves us closer to a hunger-free Oklahoma.