Lexington Two Launches Exciting Free Summer Food Service Program for Kids – Don’t Miss Out!

West Columbia, SC — As summer break approaches, many students in the Midlands may worry about where their next meal will come from. Luckily, Lexington Two has a plan to help. They are rolling out a summer food program, ensuring children have access to free meals.

The initiative offers free breakfast and lunch to anyone under 18, even if they don’t attend Lexington Two schools. This is part of the federally funded Summer Food Service Program, aiming to combat hunger during the months when school is out.

Kids can choose between two options to get their meals. For the first option, they need to eat on-site. That means going to specific school locations during set hours. The second option is Grab and Go Meal Pickup, where parents can pick up meals curbside, making it easier for busy families.

Details on Meal Options:

On-Site Meals: At several schools, kids can enjoy breakfast and lunch during the week. Below are some locations:

• Airport High School
  1315 Boston Ave., West Columbia
  Breakfast: 7:15–7:45 a.m.
  Lunch: 10:45–11:45 a.m

• Brookland-Cayce High School
  1300 State St., Cayce
  Breakfast: 8:00–8:30 a.m.
  Lunch: 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

• Riverbank Elementary
  160 Cougar Drive, West Columbia
  Breakfast: 7:45–8:15 a.m.
  Lunch: 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Grab and Go Meals: Parents can pick up meals at designated locations:

• Pine Ridge Middle School
  735 Pine Ridge Drive, West Columbia
  Pickup: 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

This effort reflects a broader national trend. According to a report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, around 2.4 million children in the U.S. relied on summer food programs in 2021. Such initiatives are vital, particularly as food insecurity increases in many communities.

Experts emphasize the role of these programs. Dr. Emily Smith, a nutritionist, points out, “When children miss meals, their growth and learning can suffer. Programs like these make a real difference in supporting families.”

As summer approaches, many families can breathe a little easier, knowing that children will have access to nutritious meals. Efforts like Lexington Two’s remind us all of the importance of community support in addressing hunger.

For more information on federal nutrition programs, you can visit the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service website.

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