News Release: May 25, 2010 Contacts: Barbara Wise, R.J. Lee Group, Marketing Director; and Mary Trauth, Human Services FIND-OUT Services (724-852-1943)
WAYNESBURG, PA — The Greene County Summer Food Program was established to provide free meals to children, so they receive the same high quality nutrition during school vacations that they get in school cafeterias during the school year.
Continued nutrition helps children return to school. While learning does not end when school lets out, neither does the need for good nutrition. This program provides good nutritious food that's "in" while school is out.
This federally funded program is operated nationally by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Organizations with summer programs may receive reimbursement for meals served to children at approved sites.
The school districts approved to prepare the food are Carmichaels, Central Greene and West Greene.
"They have been working diligently to make this program a reality, and we couldn't have done it without them. Their enthusiasm is so encouraging, and what a great job they have done," said Barbara Wise of RJ Lee Group, marketing director for the summer food program.
Sites where the free lunches will be available are:
Eva K. Bowlby Library — Summer Reading Club, July 6 through August 13
Greene County Parks and Recreation Day Camp sites — June 21 to July 30
Margaret Bell Miller Middle School
Waynesburg Borough Central Park — June 21 through July 30
West Greene Middle-Senior High School — football and band camps
WWJD Christian Center/West Sides — June 14 through Aug. 20
"We are also seeking volunteers to help assist in preparing and transporting food to local sites. Sites will need assistance in distributing food to the children, clean up efforts, supervise recreation and enrichment activities," Wise said.
"Plus, we are looking for anyone who would like to provide activities for the children and to share their expertise, such as arts and crafts, teach songs, play games and help the children learn about animals, safety, nutrition and exercise."
Starting a new program is always challenging, Wise said, and that is why "we are reaching out to community leaders, organizations and residents for financial support. Please join us in supporting children by becoming a partner of the Summer Food Program."
For more information, call Greene County Find Out at 724-852-1943 or 800-433-1943.
Today's date is:
For general information, please contact the Information Services at 724-852-5399 / Toll Free: 1-888-852-5399. County Office Building, 93 E. High Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370
