Home Economy Economic Activity Eat, Play, Learn PVD returns to Providence this summer

Eat, Play, Learn PVD returns to Providence this summer

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PBN Staff

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03/05/2026

REGISTRATION FOR "Eat, Play, Learn PVD,” the city of Providence program that provides free meals and educational programs for children and young adults is back for another summer, begins April 4.

PROVIDENCE – “Eat, Play, Learn PVD,” a government program that provides free meals and educational programs for children and young adults, is back for another summer. Mayor Brett P. Smiley announced Thursday that the opening of registrations for the annual program that offers no-cost summer meals, quality recreation opportunities, project-based learning opportunities and summer employment

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PROVIDENCE – "Eat, Play, Learn PVD,” a government program that provides free meals and educational programs for children and young adults, is back for another summer. Mayor Brett P. Smiley announced Thursday that the opening of registrations for the annual program that offers no-cost summer meals, quality recreation opportunities, project-based learning opportunities and summer employment will begin April 4. Registration will be available both online and at the Summer Opportunities Fair at the Providence Career and Technical Academy on March 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “In a moment where uncertainty at the federal government continues to threaten food security for our children, it is more important than ever for local government to step up and provide the critical resources our students rely on,” Smiley said. “We know that opportunities to learn and grow after school and in the summer months is fundamental for the long-term success of our students and that is why we continue to expand these programs and offer families the resources they need to thrive.” The city will serve lunches at more than 30 neighborhood schools, parks, recreation centers, pools and waterparks. The service will begin on June 29 at all park locations and will continue Monday through Saturday. Locations and times will be listed online; however, Saturday meals will be offered at Bucklin, Fargnoli, Harriet and Sayles, India Point and Neutaconkanut parks. “Keeping students engaged in learning and enrichment activities throughout the summer break helps them stay on course towards continued growth and success,” said R.I. Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. “RIDE is proud to join the City of Providence, Providence Public Schools, and other community partners to relaunch Eat, Play, Learn PVD and offer families in the capital city exciting programs and opportunities. We encourage youth and parents to explore offerings and take advantage of the many opportunities available.” Also, as part of the program, recreation centers will once again host all-day summer recreation camps starting at just $5/week. The city will be offering youths 700 slots to sports camp and 600 slots to day camps. In addition to recreational programming, residents are encouraged to explore Providence parks through PlayCorps, Fitness in the Parks and the city’s Park Finder. Families can sign up online for recreational camps on April 12 or attend the Summer Opportunities Fair for more information. “The EAT, PLAY, LEARN initiative is a great way to combat summer slide and keep students’ minds engaged between school years,” said City Council President Pro Tempore Juan M. Pichardo. “We’re ensuring Providence students, regardless of financial background, have access to meals, recreational activities, educational programs, and employment throughout the summer. Enriching our kids – keeping them fed, active, and learning – enriches the entire city.” The city and Providence Public School District are collaborating to offer summer learning programs for students of all ages who will engage in active and project-based learning opportunities during the summer months. Parents can find more information about these programs at the Summer Opportunities Fair that will be held on April 4, where program providers will be available for inquiries and registration, both in person and online. "The success of the Eat, Play, Learn program is rooted in the power of community collaboration,” said Providence Public Schools Superintendent Javier Montañez. “From academic enrichment and essential summer meals to employing our high school students, this initiative ensures our youth are supported year-round. We are deeply grateful to the City of Providence and our dedicated community partners for helping us bridge the summer learning gap and prepare our students for the school year ahead."