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TOP STORY OF THE DAY - Providing free & hot breakfasts and lunchs for children
Did you know there is a free breakfast and lunch program for anyone 18 and younger during the summer?
The Department of Education funds the YMCA to provide hot meals Monday-Friday (holidays excluded).
Leialoha Marion has been with the program for four years and wants to reach out to those in need.
“We provide breakfast and lunch. Most meals are hot meals that follow nutrition guidelines similar to school lunches,” said Marion. “There are no sign-ups and no need to show proof of financial need. They simply show up between the posted serving times and take a meal.”
Marion says there are two basic rules, “(1)The free meals can only be provided to individuals 18 and under, (2) and the meals must be eaten on site.”
Marion said the program is subject to visits from officials from the DOE, and any violation could result in a loss of the program.
“There is no limit to how many children one adult or guardian can bring. Anyone can bring a child to eat a meal - grandparents, caregivers, or the neighbor helping with childcare for the summer — even older siblings,” said Marion, who says accompanying adults can eat for a nominal fee of $3. “I am debating about reaching out to area businesses to see if they would like to sponsor the cost of the meals for adults. I know the need in this area is great, and we can help, but there are very few participants.”
The program starts May 30th and will continue until school is back in session.
Forest Park Elementary School
800 S Alabama St, Brazil – Door #17.
Breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m.
Lunch is served from 11 a.m.-Noon.