Starting Tuesday, the United Way in Windsor-Essex is launching its Summer Eats for Kids program to help families with school-aged children provide healthy snacks.
"For kids who rely on school nutrition programs, summer can be the hungriest time of the year," said Liam Giles-Hayes, the director of United Way Programs.
Families with children can pick up a free box of food every Tuesday at St. James Catholic Elementary School and Catholic Central High School in Windsor, and in Leamington at St. Louis Catholic Elementary School between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
On Thursdays, boxes will be handed out at West Gate Public School, Dougall Avenue Public School, and at Frank W. Begley Public School from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The program runs until August 26, and all staff and volunteers will take precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Summer Eats for Kids is also looking for volunteers and donations.
Those who want to volunteer can contact nlesperance@weareunited.com or call 519-999-4473.
Those who want to donate or fundraise for the program should visit the United Way's website. So far, it has raised half of its $35,000 fundraising goal.
The United Way also hopes to collect 5,000 books to go along with the food boxes, and those donations can be dropped off between July 5 and July 30 at the agency's office at 300 Giles Boulevard East. The books will be collected on Mondays from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and on Fridays from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
