Free lunches available for children this summer

The last day of school means no more homework and tests, but it also means the end of reliable meals for parents who might struggle to feed their children. 

A recent Jackson Heights High School graduate is partnering with several organizations to make sure local school-aged children do not go hungry this summer.

Kay Andrews, in cooperation with Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, First United Methodist Church of Holton, Harvesters and the United States Department of Agriculture, is providing a free lunch throughout the summer months to all children ages 18 and younger.

The free meals are being served from 11 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday from now until Aug. 13. The meals are served at the large shelterhouse at the northeast corner of Rafter’s Park, 711 Nebraska Ave. in Holton.

Children do not need to sign up for the program or provide any sort of proof of income, Andrews said. 

Two years ago, as part of a youth group, Andrews volunteered to distribute food at Harvesters in Kansas City. At that time, representatives from Harvesters reported that they wanted someone to set up a summer lunch site and administer meals in Holton. 

Andrews, who graduated from Jackson Heights in 2015 and just finished her freshman year at Emporia State University, said she was looking for an opportunity to serve in the community this summer when she remembered Harvesters. She is the daughter of Vern and Cari Andrews.

Andrews said that Catholic Charities purchases the lunch items from Harvesters, and then the USDA reimburses the organization. 

 “Each lunch includes milk, a grain, two fruits and a protein,” Andrews said. “For lunch on Monday, we served a tortilla with peanut butter and jelly, along with raisins, trail mix and applesauce.”

Children taking advantage of the free lunch program must eat the meal at the shelterhouse, she said. Food is available any time between 11 a.m. and noon.

Since the shelterhouse is located near the Holton swimming pool, she said she hopes many children will be able to take advantage of the program.

“We wanted a good central area for kids to come,” she said. “A lot of kids use the swimming pool during the summer so we thought it would be a good way to reach out to them.”

With rainy weather and school still in session for many Holton students, only seven students participated in the food program on Monday. Andrews said she plans to prepare 50 meals each day. 

“I could always use more help,” she said. “I am looking for new volunteers.” 

For more information or to volunteer to serve lunch, contact Andrews at kandrew5@g.emporia.edu.