Savor the Summer: Free Lunch in the Park Program Returns
Refreshingly Delicious Adventures Await
Summer is upon us, and what better way to embrace the sunny days than with a feast in the park? Food Backpacks 4 Kids is assembling a flavor-packed, free Summer Lunch in the Park program that promises to both nourish kids and delight their taste buds. Running every Tuesday and Thursday from July 8 through August 28, residents of Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula can look forward to a scrumptious experience at noon—where health meets happiness.
Where to Grab Your Goodies
This delightful initiative is made possible by the dedicated volunteers from Altrusa International, who will be stationed at various locations to serve up tasty treats. Gather your friends and head to these vital community hubs:
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Gig Harbor Distribution Locations:
- Gig Harbor Library: 4424 Point Fosdick Drive
- Gig Harbor Civic Center Skate Park: 3510 Grandview St.
- Key Peninsula Sites:
- Gateway Park: 10405 Highway 302 NW
- Key Peninsula Civic Center: 17010 S Vaughn Road
- Home Park: 17220 8th Ave. Ct. NW, Lakebay
With each site serving 25 delicious lunches, there’s no excuse for kids to go hungry!
Fresh Ingredients for a Healthy Bite
The magic lies in each handcrafted sack lunch, a delightful medley that includes:
- Handmade Sandwiches or Wraps: Crafted with fresh ingredients
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Crisp and vibrant
- Chips, Crackers, or Cookies: A perfect snack to crunch on
- Beverages: Refreshing drinks to quench the thirst
Food Backpacks 4 Kids’ Executive Director, Zaida Woodworth, emphasizes the partnership’s commitment to serving 4,720 lunches this summer—sure to satisfy the appetites of hungry little ones!
Navigating the Rising Costs
However, feeding our community comes at a price. The program’s cost has soared to $8,000, driven by escalating food prices. As Woodworth notes, despite past successful fundraisers like the Empty Bowls event, the current financial climate presents significant challenges. Chapel Hill Church has lent a generous $2,500 sponsorship, but there’s still a call for support. Imagine a world where nutritious meals are accessible to all—this is one way we can contribute to that vision.
A Community Driven by Care
Food Backpacks receives much of its supplies from the Emergency Food Network, which has felt the pinch from federal cuts. That means every banana, bagel, and bottle of juice that finds its way into a lunch is a small triumph over adversity.
Moreover, the initiative isn’t just about free lunches at public parks. More than 100 kids from housing developments without transport will receive meals directly, emphasizing the importance of accessibility in combating food insecurity.
How You Can Help
Are you inspired to join this heartwarming cause? Check out Food Backpacks 4 Kids for their Amazon Wishlist, a quick and easy way to contribute essentials like paper bags and gloves.
So, gather your little ones, enjoy a picnic in the park, and experience a taste of community spirit that nourishes both the body and soul. Because after all, summer is more fun when we share delicious meals with friends!
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Bio: Talia brings a background in health journalism and holistic living to help readers live better, one tip at a time.