Written by Trent Thompkins, intern with The Messenger

The City of Troy has been participating in the Summer Feeding Program for 20 years and it kicks off again June 3.

The program, constructed for ages 18 months to 18 years, takes steps to slow the pace of child starvation by offering free meals everyday at various locations around the Pike County area. With school out of session, the Summer Feeding Program offers children a means to eat a healthy meal that may normally be unavailable to them during the summer months.

“Sometimes parents work and kids need a meal,” said Jann Baxter-Lee, director of the program. “Our goal is to make sure kids are able to eat a free meal during the summer,” Baxter-Lee says.

Baxter-Lee said generous donations from the U.S.D.A. and the Pike County Department of Education are used every year to provide, on average, around 300 meals per day. The Feeding Program has even been able to open two brand new locations in the city of Brundidge. The New Beginnings Church, and the Jesus Christ Church of God are just two of the many places that children can pick up a free sack lunch this summer.

Meals contain a sandwich, fruit, juice, and milk. The program will be running through July 19. For more information about the Summer Feeding Program, contact the office located at the Troy Elementary School at (334) 566-1444.