As summer break begins in El Paso, local schools and food banks are stepping up to ensure that children continue to receive nutritious meals. With a food insecurity rate nearly double the national average, the community faces significant challenges in providing consistent meals for its youth.

Community Efforts to Combat Food Insecurity

El Pasoans Fighting Hunger, led by Interim CEO Kris Yagel, is actively working to supply fresh produce to children during the summer months. However, the organization struggles to secure enough protein sources. Yagel highlights the pressure this situation places on parents to maintain a stable home environment.

In response, the Canutillo Independent School District is offering free meals to all children 18 years and younger, without requiring identification or proof of income. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support families who rely on school-provided meals during the academic year.

Schools and Partners Join Forces

Canutillo ISD, along with IDEA Public Schools and El Paso Community College, is committed to providing breakfast and lunch throughout the summer. Meals will be available Monday through Friday at designated campuses, with breakfast served from 7:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. and lunch from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Additionally, the Mobile Pantry will operate every Tuesday from June to November, offering further support to families in need. Information on specific locations and times can be found on the El Paso Community College website.

Families seeking more details about meal availability can contact cafeteria managers at any IDEA campus or visit IDEA Public Schools online. These efforts underscore the community’s dedication to ensuring no child goes hungry during the summer months.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.