FOX VALLEY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Now that kids are out of school, free summer meal programs are starting up around Northeast Wisconsin.
The Boys and Girls Club of the Fox Valley kicked off its program last Monday.
“Absolutely it is tough right now everything is more expensive and it’s just a really good option for the kids,” said Casey Jochman.
Jochman says everyone is navigating the higher prices. He says it’s nice to know that free summer meal programs exist for his two kids and others in the Fox Valley.
“Kids 18 years and younger you can get a free breakfast and lunch,” said Boys and Girls Club of the Fox Valley healthy habits food program coordinator Barb Rivers.
She says you don’t need to be a club member to get a healthy meal. Any kid can come in and grab lunch or breakfast to-go.
“All you have to do is drive up to the boys and girls club here, in Menasha or Manitowoc.,” said Rivers, “And just say I’m here for the free meals and we’ll get them made for you and send them on up.”
The Boys and Girls Club says not as many people are utilizing the free summer food program. They say once the Appleton Area School District’s summer school program is done in a few weeks they expect higher numbers.
“Last week we served about 240 meals per day and then this week because of summer school we’re down about 100 kids,” said Rivers.
Rivers says they were ready to feed 300 mouths the first week.
If food costs for families continue to rise, she hopes the free meals will gain more popularity.
“It’s hard to find good nutritious food for your kids. The cheap stuff is always easier to buy and make but that nutrition is really what we’re looking for for the kids,” said Rivers.
The Boys and Girls Club of the Fox Valley says it’s happy to provide free nutritious meals for kids like Jochman’s daughter Caly, and hundreds of others. The club hopes even more people will stop by.
“Please utilize us, if your kids are hungry and you’re not sure where to go please use us,” said Rivers.
A majority of area school districts are also offering free meals for families daily.
To find free summer meals near you CLICK HERE.
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