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The Pine Bush Central School District has launched its summer meals program, offering free breakfast and lunch to children up to 18 years old. Starting Wednesday (July 9), the program will run through August 23, distributing meals at Circleville Church in Circleville. No sign-up is necessary; parents and caregivers can simply drop by with their children between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. to pick up meals.
The initiative aims to support families facing financial challenges, ensuring children receive nutritious meals during the summer break. Caitlin Lazarski, the district's director of school nutrition, emphasized the importance of the program, saying, "We want to make sure that families are not having to make difficult decisions about feeding their kids a less healthy item or maybe making a decision on not being able to afford gas or rent or to be able to feed their kids."
The USDA funds the program through its Summer Nutrition Program for Kids, and it is operated in collaboration with the American Dairy Association North East and Cornell Cooperative Association. The district also held a kickoff event at Pine Bush High School to celebrate the start of the program, inviting the community to join in the festivities.
Families interested in receiving five-day meal boxes can sign up weekly on the district's website by the Friday before distribution. The program aims to alleviate the burden on families and promote healthy eating habits among children.