FINDLAY, OH (Toledo News Now) - Summer break often means many students won't have access to a nutritious meal for months. The Summer Food Service for Findlay City Schools is working to put an end to that.
Organizers of the program say for some Findlay kids, hopping on a bike was their only way to get to Glenwood Middle School for a hot, free lunch.
"We know those 40-something percent during the school year rely on us [for free or reduced meals], so during summer break, it gives them that opportunity to still have a meal available," said Teresa Welty, food service director for Findlay City Schools.
That's why the district says it's so important to keep providing food for students, even when they're not in school, to make sure they don't have to worry about what they'll eat for two months.
At Glenwood, workers say they've seen an average of 60 people stop by for lunch – a fairly low turnout compared to the need for the program.
The school has a lot of competition in Findlay, from the Salvation Army to community churches, all providing the same service. But school leaders say despite the cost, they have no plans to get rid of the program.
"We do still have to pay our labor hours for our staff," Welty said. "And obviously the food costs, but it's still a community program. It helps the families that need this."
With plenty of time left in the summer, organizers want to spread the word to families who still need the support to stop by and take advantage of the service. Kids can walk in and eat for free Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Parents can eat, too, for just $2.65.
