In a bid to support families during the summer months, Springdale Public Schools in Arkansas are offering free meals to children aged 18 and under. This initiative is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Seamless Summer Option program, which aims to provide nutritious meals to children when school is not in session.

The program is open to all children, regardless of whether they attend Springdale Public Schools. Meals are available for dine-in from Monday to Friday, between 11 a.m. and noon, at various elementary schools in the district. The participating schools include Harp Elementary, Parson Hills Elementary, George Elementary, Elmdale Elementary, and Walker Elementary, with specific dates for each location.

Trent Jones from Springdale Public Schools emphasized the inclusivity of the program, stating, “You don’t have to be in Springdale School District, you just have to be 18 or under. We welcome everybody to come in.”

Melissa Thompson, a cafeteria manager, highlighted the program’s importance for families facing financial challenges during the summer. “During the summertime, I know parents are crunched for money,” she said. “It fills me with joy to see the kids coming in to get something to eat, and knowing that we can give them a good, nutritious lunch.”

Families interested in the program can find more information on the Springdale Schools website under the ‘Summer Meals’ section. The initiative not only provides essential nutrition but also eases the financial burden on families, reinforcing the community’s commitment to supporting its children.

Original reporting: 5NEWS / KFSM (Fort Smith) — read the source article.