More Than 34,000 Children in Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties are Eligible to Receive Nutrition Assistance During the School Year, but Many Go Hungry During Summer Months
As Americans Prepare for July 4th Cookouts, Many Children Are Still Hungry. At Least 9 out of 10 School Year Eligible Children in Lackawanna and Luzerne Aren’t Taking Advantage of Program
Scranton PA- With schools closed for the summer, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), co-chair of the Senate Hunger Caucus, highlighted resources available to more 34,000 children who receive critical nutrition assistance during the school year. Casey discussed the resources available through the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), a federal nutrition program jointly run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and local sponsors. There are more than 100 sites in Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties.
“As we approach July 4th it’s important to remember that there are far too many children in Northeastern Pennsylvania and across the country who are hungry,” Senator Casey said. “This is a program that can help children get the food they need during the summer months when school is out. Too many parents are missing out on this program. We need to raise awareness about it so that every child eligible for summer meals can get them.”
In Lackawanna and Luzerne counties there are over 34,000 children eligible for free or reduced lunch during the school year, yet at least 9 out of 10 do not take advantage of it during the summer months. The program helps children receive nutritious meals during the summer months when school is out. Residents can find more information about the program by calling 1-866-3-HUNGRY or 1-877-8-HAMBRE or visiting www.pasummermeals.com.
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