Preventing hunger is the goal of a summer feeding program in the Marion County schools.
Melinda Trahan, director of child nutrition for the Marion County School District, said they are once again part of the USDA Summer Food Service Program.
“Summer is an exciting time for children to relax, swim and enjoy friends,” Trahan said. “However, for many children who receive free and reduced meals at schools, summer can mean hunger. Just as learning doesn’t end when school lets out, neither does a child’s need for good nutrition.”
The program will operate at East Marion Monday through Friday beginning Wednesday, May 30 and ending on Wednesday, July 11. Breakfast will be served from 8 a.m. until 9 a.m. and lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. The program will be closed on Wednesday, July 4 for Independence Day.
“I encourage parents to allow their children to participate in this summer feeding program,” Trahan said. “Children 18 years old and younger are welcome and you do not have to be a Marion County School District student to participate. Any person over the age of 18 will be charged for their meals: breakfast is $2.50 and lunch, $3.75.”
The grant-funded program has been around in the Marion County School District for many years, according to Trahan.
“We received a grant again and we’re able to provide it,” she said.
Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact Trahan or Jane Breeland at the Marion County School District at (601)1) 731-2083.
