- Last Updated on Monday, 04 June 2018 01:47
Community organizations across southwestern Pennsylvania are preparing to kick off a summer of fun and free, healthy meals to children.
Through the Summer Food Program, a federally-funded nutrition program that provides free meals to children ages 18 and under when school is not in session, more than 613 organizations such as community centers, churches, parks, playgrounds, libraries and schools across 11 counties of southwestern Pennsylvania will provide more than one million meals to children this summer.
More than 145,000 children across southwestern Pennsylvania qualify for free and reduced school meals during the school year. When school ends for the summer, parents face increased food costs in addition to things like childcare. This can lead to children receiving unhealthy meals and experiencing fatigue, weight gain and summer learning loss leaving many children unprepared to return to school in the fall.
Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank works with Summer Food Program sites and sponsors across its 11-county service area to expand participation in the program.
In Allegheny County, more than 321 summer food sites will participate in the program. Most sites are open mid-June through mid-August. Parents, guardians and children can find a site near them by calling 2-1-1 or by texting FOOD to 877-877.
Any organizations or individuals interested in learning more about how to become involved with the Summer Food Program can contact the Food Bank by email at partnership@pittsburghfoodbank.org.
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