Summer can be a time of hunger for some children who rely on school meals for the largest part of their nutrition.
However, there are programs in place in Blaine County to meet that need.
Watonga Elementary School is the site for the summer food program through the school system. However, children do not have to be a public school student to receive free meals.
Breakfast is served from 7:30-9 a.m. Monday through Thursday and lunch is ready from 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. This program runs through June.
Another summer food program provides meals for children ages 1-18 through Opportunities, Inc., on Russworm Avenue.
This site offers a 10day supply of meals distributed every 14 days. Meals will be distributed from 9-11 a.m. on June 2, 16 and 30, as well as on July 14-28. This is on a first come, first served basis.
A similar program is operating in Geary from the elementary school. Every Monday from this week through August 4 each child under age 18 may receive free, healthy, nutritious meals. Each box will contain five shelf stable breakfasts and lunches.
And at Canton, the summer lunch program continues through June 13. Breakfast is served from 8-8:30 a.m. and lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the high school cafeteria. This is a free program for children up to age 18.
For more information, contact your local school district or go to https://oklahoma.gov/edu cation/ services/ childnutrition/ summer- foodservice- program.html for a site near you.