Bozeman, Montana Prepares to Launch Summer Lunch Program for Local Youth
As the academic year concludes, Bozeman’s Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) is set to initiate its annual Summer Lunch Program aimed at addressing food insecurity among local children. The program, which begins next Monday, seeks to provide nutritious meals to those who rely heavily on school lunches during the school year.
Families across Bozeman can access free meals at multiple locations, including Bogert Park, ensuring no child goes hungry during the summer months. Jill Holder, the Food and Nutrition Director at HRDC, emphasizes the critical nature of this initiative, noting an increase in food demand over the summer as children are at home and not receiving the meals provided at school. “Contrary to popular belief, the Gallatin Valley Food Bank does not slow down in the summer. It actually becomes busier as families require additional support,” Holder remarked. The program serves as a vital resource for families during a time when many face economic challenges.
Under the auspices of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the HRDC is responsible for organizing this program, which ensures compliance with federal meal standards. Each day, about 325 meals are prepared and distributed across various sites, following a meal pattern that aligns with the nutritional standards set for school lunches. Meals include essential food groups such as fruits, vegetables, grains, calcium, and protein, thereby promoting healthy eating habits among the youth.
Volunteers play a crucial role in the program’s success, assisting in meal preparation and transportation to various distribution sites. The HRDC actively encourages community involvement and welcomes additional volunteers to support this initiative.
Lunch sites are strategically located in neighborhoods facing economic challenges, with adjustments made this year to include the Bozeman Public Library as a distribution point, following successful fundraising efforts by the Friends and Foundation of the library. The inclusion of this location not only improves access to nutritious food but also enhances the library’s community programming for families.
For the first time, HRDC’s Marketplace (Gallatin Valley Food Bank) will expand lunch distribution to cover weekdays, including the provision of weekend meals on Fridays. Holder expressed optimism about this expansion, stating, “We’re excited to see how this goes and to provide more resources for families.”
Importantly, no income eligibility is required for participants in the summer meal program. Any child aged 18 or younger may receive meals, making this initiative accessible to all families in need.
The HRDC’s distribution schedule includes several lunch sites available Monday through Friday from 12 PM to 1 PM, regardless of weather conditions, ensuring consistent access to meals. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to combating childhood food insecurity and fostering a healthier community in Bozeman.
Lunch Distribution Locations:
– MSU Family Housing – 109 Paisley Ct.
– Story Mill Park
– Bogert Park
– Bozeman Public Library
Gallatin Valley Food Bank Distribution:
– Monday to Thursday: 12 PM to 4 PM
– Friday: 9 AM to 12 PM
Special Note: Hyalite Elementary will offer meals from June 23 to July 24, with breakfast served from 8:45 AM to 9:15 AM and lunch from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
This summer lunch program marks an essential step in ensuring that all children in Bozeman have access to nutritious meals, supporting their health and well-being throughout the summer months.
