The Summer Meals Programs provides free lunches to anyone 18 and under at the Faxon Library in West Hartford.

By Ronni Newton

Faxon Library. Photo credit: Ronni Newton (we-ha.com file photo)

The need for food – especially nutritious food – is critical in West Hartford during the summer months, when the approximately 21 percent of students (more than 2,000) eligible for free or reduced lunch and breakfast are not in school.

West Hartford first launched a Summer Meals Program in 2017, and will hold the program again this summer, beginning Monday, June 25. 

Lunches – at no charge – will be available on weekdays from noon through 1 p.m. at the Faxon Library, located at 1073 New Britain Ave. in the Elmwood section of West Hartford.

The program will run through Aug. 17, and is open to all children and teens, ages 18 and under. The program is completely “open” – meaning there is no need to prove age, residency in West Hartford, or anything else to qualify. There is also no need to register, in advance or at the door.

Parents or guardians can accompany their children, but the food is only for those under 18. All must be consumed onsite; it’s not a “grab and go.”

The meals will be provided by West Hartford Public Schools, with support from End Hunger Connecticut, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Connecticut State Department of Education.

The meals will meet federal nutrition guidelines established by the USDA, and will include milk, fruits, vegetables, grains, and meat or another protein. There will be choices, ranging from deli sandwiches, to burgers or grilled chicken, to vegetarian/vegan offerings. Participants can also choose cereal or cereal bars and cheese sticks.

For more information, call the Faxon Library at 860-561-8202.

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