Staff writer
Tuesday is the first day for a summer lunch program developed through a partnership of the Kansas Food Bank of Sedgwick County, USD 398, and the Peabody Community Foundation.
“We are excited about being able to offer this summer program,” said Peabody-Burns Superintendent Ron Traxson. “The plan went together surprisingly well. We will try it first and see what kind of interest there is for it.”
Any child in the community from age 1 to 18 is eligible to take part in the program and there is no charge to participate. On May 14, the last day of school, sample lunches were sent home with students in kindergarten to fifth grade so parents could see what makes up the lunch their children will eat. The same meal will be offered to older students in middle school and high school. Fresh fruit will be included when the program gets going next week.
The full schedule for the lunch program will be from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, May 26 to July 3.
Meals will be served to all students in the multipurpose room of the grade school and must be eaten on site.
Beth Peter is the volunteer coordinator of the program. She is looking for volunteers to help at the lunchroom. Schedules are flexible. Clubs, groups, and individuals who are available for a week or even one or two days can contact Beth Peter at Peabody-Burns Elementary School (620) 983-2188 or contact the central office at (620) 983-2198.