A vital community effort has gained momentum in Fayetteville, North Carolina, as Cumberland County Schools (CCS) introduces its annual summer program offering free meals for children. This initiative aims to address the growing concern of child hunger in the area by providing nutritious food to young people from all walks of life. The response from parents has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their gratitude for the support this program offers.
Among those who benefit from the program is Lesha Hines, a CCS parent, who appreciates not only the meals but also the sense of community it fosters. "It’s a wonderful opportunity to bond and enjoy some downtime together," she shares, highlighting the additional perks like free books and entertainment resources provided occasionally. For working parents such as Jessica Edson, the convenience factor is invaluable. "On my days off, I don’t have to stress over meal planning. We simply stop by and pick up something delicious,” Edson remarks, noting her children's excitement over the varied menu options.
Beth Maynard, the executive director of CCS Child Nutrition Services, emphasizes that accessibility is at the core of this program. Children do not need any documentation or registration to partake in the meals; they are served based on a simple age verification process when necessary. Over the past three decades, the initiative has grown significantly, reflecting an increasing demand driven by economic challenges such as inflation and rising grocery costs exacerbated by the pandemic. Last year alone, the number of meals distributed soared from 40,000 to 91,000, demonstrating the critical role this program plays in supporting local families.
Through compassionate actions like these, communities come together to ensure no child goes hungry during the summer months. By fostering an environment where every young person receives nourishment, we empower them to thrive physically and mentally. Such efforts remind us of our shared responsibility to uplift each other, especially in times of hardship, promoting resilience and hope for a brighter future.