To ensure that fewer children and teens go hungry this summer, the YMCA of Greater Boston is offering a free Summer Food Program at many of its branches that span from Boston to Waltham, as well as sponsoring additional sites at neighboring community centers for areas in need.
The Summer Food Program is made possible thanks to a $70,000 grant from the Walmart Foundation. Combining food and fun, the program will provide nutritious meals and snacks, plus activities to keep children’s minds and bodies active. The YMCA of Greater Boston’s Waltham branch will serve as a participating site for the Summer Food Program, which runs from June 24 through Aug. 23 and is open to children ages 18 and under.
The Waltham YMCA, 725 Lexington St., will serve lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and snack from 3:15 to 3:45 p.m., Monday through Friday.
The YMCA of Greater Boston’s Summer Food Program is part of a national partnership between YMCA of the USA and the Walmart Foundation to address child hunger in communities. While more than 30 million children in low-income communities receive free or reduced-cost meals during the school year, only 2.3 million of these same children have access to free meals when school is out.
At YMCAs nationwide, more than 900 summer food program sites will strive to serve 4 million healthy meals and snacks to 100,000 children this summer.
“In order for kids to maintain good health, they need proper nourishment as well as activities to keep their minds and bodies active,” said Kevin Washington, YMCA of Greater Boston president and CEO. “The YMCA’s Summer Food Program will help kids stay well-nourished, active and energized, and also provide some relief to families who need support in providing more food when school is out.”