In 2015, 9.7% of Massachusetts households – nearly 675,000 adults and children – were food insecure. Food insecurity can be exacerbated during the summer. Here in Medway, over one in ten, 12%, of Medway Public School students qualify for reduced fee or free lunch. When school is out for the summer and no longer providing lunch, many families struggle to bridge the gap. The Medway Public Library is piloting a program this summer that will provide free lunch each Thursday this summer for children and their caretakers. All are welcome and there are no restrictions or income information needed.
The pilot program is a nice complement to the theme of the Library’s Summer Reading Program “Build A Better World.” Participants can join in Story Time at 11 a.m., enjoy lunch at 11:45, and participate in drop in craft and STEM activities after lunch. The lunch program begins July 13th.
The Library will be able to provide 30 lunches each Thursday this summer with hopes of expanding the program in the future. This is free of charge and on a first come, first served basis. Registration is required a week in advance, so that we know how many lunches are needed. Register online or call (508) 533-3217.
The lunch program is funded by generous donations from the Medway Community Church, Restaurant 45, Roche Bros., and Direct Tire, with additional pledges of support from Medway Oil and Whole Foods. If you would like to make a donation to support this program or volunteer to help serve lunches please contact director Margaret Perkins at (508) 533-3217.
Issue Date:
July, 2017
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