. >> rashad robinson. >>> 21 million school children are classified as poor. for nutrition they largely depend on government meal plans. from maryland, tom ac mandarinneacakerland reports. >> reporter: summertime means run free in the sunshine, but many miss the meals they've become accustomed to while schools are in session. many children received breakfast and launch there, they qualify for the free and reduced price meals if their family income fall below the poverty lines. one in every seven children get school meals participate in the summer food program. in baltimore, they serve food at more than 400 neighborhood locations, like this community center. >> we understand just from the numbers that we see walking through the door that families need support and we're here to support them wherever we can. >> reporter: but in many places around the u.s. too few are willing or able to run summer programs. that shortfall, say child nutrition advocates, is another factor contributing to high obesity rates. >> kids are likely to gain weights during summer months, t