The United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County will launch its Summer Eats for Kids program next week.
During the summer, the program provides children and low-income families with food when school nutrition programs shut down for the summer.
The program provides a week's worth of healthy snacks, fruits and vegetables at six locations in Windsor-Essex.
On Tuesdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., a package can be picked up at St. James Catholic Elementary School, Catholic Central High School, and St. Louis Catholic Elementary School. Between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Thursdays, they will be available at West Gate Public School, Dougall Avenue Public School, and Leamington District Secondary School.
The program runs from June 30 to August 27, and registration is on-site.
This year, it will use a drive-thru pick-up model because of the pandemic.
"One in three food bank users in Windsor-Essex are children, and there are many kids whose families run out of food," said CEO Lorraine Goddard. "Summer Eats for Kids is another way for us to help families right now."
Individuals and companies wishing to support the program by making a donation, hosting a workplace fundraiser, or making a pledge can do so through United Way's Hero for a Day program.
A donation of $2,500 will help 100 families.
This year's Summer Eats for Kids is sponsored by FCA Canada.
Other partners include the City of Windsor, CUPE Locals 82 and 543, Greater Essex County District School Board, the Unemployed Help Centre, the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board, and the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit.
