As summer begins, Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) is stepping up to ensure that children in the area continue to have access to nutritious meals. The district has launched its summer meals program, providing free breakfasts and lunches to children 18 and younger at numerous locations throughout Jefferson County.
Extensive Meal Access Across the County
JCPS has made meals available at 139 locations, including 81 school sites, 36 mobile lunch stops, and 19 community partner locations. This initiative aims to support families during the summer months when school is not in session.
Terina Edington from JCPS Nutrition Services expressed pride in offering these meals at no cost, emphasizing the importance of providing nutritious options to all children. The program is fully funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access.
Bulk Meal Pickups for Convenience
For families unable to visit meal sites daily, JCPS offers bulk meal pickups at three locations. These sites provide boxes containing seven breakfasts and seven lunches, allowing families to plan ahead and reduce the frequency of visits. The bulk distribution sites, including Evangel World Prayer Center and PRP Fire Training Center, operate every Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
At Echo Trail Middle School, families lined up to collect meal boxes, with JCPS planning to distribute over 26,000 boxes through this program. The initiative addresses a significant need in the community, as more than 60% of JCPS students qualify for free or reduced lunch meals, and nearly 4,000 students have experienced homelessness.
Community Impact and Family Support
For caregivers like Leslie Lovelace, who looks after her grandchildren, the program provides essential support. She appreciates the convenience and nutritional value of the meals, which offer quick and healthy options throughout the week.
The Summer Meals Program runs through July 24, with bulk meal pickups available until July 31. JCPS ensures that meals include student favorites from the school year and can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
