BRATTLEBORO — Many children rely on school meals during the school year. In Windham County, 48 percent of students are eligible for free meals. But once schools let out for summer vacation, these children must look for other sources of food.
Summer meal sites provide this crucial source of nutritious food but, in the Windham Region, not all of the eligible locations are actually serving children during the summer months, according to a news release.
The Springfield area is of particular concern, according to the release.
The Hunger Council of the Windham Region, one of 10 Hunger Councils currently facilitated by Hunger Free Vermont, includes the Chester and Springfield areas. It is working on ways to expand summer meal programs, how to support them, and how to make sure families know about them and can use them.
The kickoff for this season's Summer Food Program will take place during Gallery Walk on Friday, June 3, from 5 to 7 p.m., at the Brattleboro Boys & Girls Club on Flat Street.
There will be a free dinner for families, activities and giveaways, games and prizes, and information on the food program and volunteer opportunities.