Programs to Feed Low Income Children

School has ended and for many children the one meal they could count on is gone. During the school year children whose family's income is below a certain limit are able to sign up for the free or reduced lunch program at school. When the school year ends many children are not able to have the extra meal they were getting during the school year. Parents need to be aware that there are programs that will help to feed their children during the summer months.

Many Salvation Army locations offer a "Feed the Children" program. This program consists of volunteers making bag lunches that are distributed to all children under the age of 18 during the noon hour. The bag lunches consist of a FDA regulated foods for the children. Lunches are distributed at local playgrounds, schools, churches and parks. There is no cost to the children or parents for these daily lunches. ""Feed the Children is not based on income, any child who attends the meal site at the distribution hours, will be provided a lunch. Call your local Salvation or City helpline to find a distribution site near you.

WIC (Women, Infant and Children) is another program providing nutritious food to pregnant women, infants or children under the age of 6. This program offers formula, juice, cereal, tuna, peanut butter and milk each month to families who qualify. During the summer months, some farmer's markets will also accept WIC vouchers for fresh fruits and vegetables. Qualifications are based on family size and income. Families pick up vouchers that can be used at most grocery stores and some drugstores for the items available. Recertification is required every six months.

Many local churches and other organizations offer food pantries for people in the neighborhood. Calling your local city helpline can provide you with a list in your neighborhood. Food pantries provide food on weekly or monthly basis to families in needs. Some pantries will also have health and beauty supplies to be distributed to families in need. Each pantry is run by the local church and community volunteers. The organization may require that you bring in proof of income before providing you with help.

These are just a few places that can help you feed your children. Make sure to take advantages of these services if you need help. The local city helpline can also give you more ideas and places to go for help with food. There is no reason why a child should go hungry this summer.