United Way of Tri-County Wraps Up Summer Meal Program

The United Way of Tri-County’s Summer Food Service Program began feeding hungry children lunches during the summer months as part of the USDA Summer Food Service Program which works to ensure that children still have access to nutritious meals after the school year ends.

The program launched at the Pearl Street Cupboard & Café in June with only a few children coming in for lunch. Soon the word got out, and they began hosting daily lunches for more than 50 children per week.

Framingham State University nutrition student Brittany Taylor interned to run the program and organize activities for participating children.

“I was overwhelmed by the need that exists in the community. So many of the students were thrilled to have a safe place to gather and eat a nutritionally adequate lunch. It was so rewarding to serve kids," said Taylor.   

The program just closed for the school year, but will open up again at the end of the school season. Any child that is age 18 or younger is welcome to participate in the program. It is not necessary to pre-register, and there is no income requirement.

“We are grateful for the partnership with FPS and Project Bread to help with resources to be able to supply children and youth with a safe place to have a healthy lunch. Our plan is to continue the program next year and continue our mission to provide hunger relief, improve the quality of life, and connect families and neighbors in need to essential services in our community. Our goal is to reduce the levels of food insecurity, while strengthening the connections between people and available resources," said Jen Maseda, Senior Vice President for United Way of Tri-County, HQ in Framingham.