This article is brought to you by 2nd Shift Sewer & Plumbing, Heating & Air®. 2nd Shift Sewer & Plumbing® is the leading provider of plumbing services in Howard County and the surrounding areas. With more than 30 years of experience, their knowledgeable and licensed technicians have the expertise to fix any plumbing or sewer problem you may have.
In response to the pressing issue of child food insecurity in Howard County, the Kokomo Housing Authority is proud to partner with numerous community organizations, including Bridgeway Church, the United Way serving Howard & Tipton Counties, the Howard County Health Department, Center Township Trustee’s Office, Solidarity Community FCU, Northview Church, and Crossroads Community Church, to announce the launch of the Howard County Summer Lunch Program, aiming to serve up to 500 students throughout the county each week.
In light of recent cuts to state funding, the Summer Lunch Program fills a crucial gap by providing one hot meal and a grab-n-go bag of food for students each week. According to Feeding America's "Map the Meal Gap" study, food insecurity affects numerous children in Howard County, highlighting the critical need for community-based interventions. (https://map.feedingamerica.org/county/2023/overall/indiana/county/howard)
The Summer Lunch Program will provide nutritious meals to children who rely on school lunches during the academic year and may face hunger during the summer months. By ensuring consistent access to healthy food, the program seeks to support children's physical health, cognitive development, and overall well-being.
Program Details
Start Date: Wednesday - June 4, 2025
End Date: Wednesday - July 23, 2025
Locations: Bon Air Park; Garden Square Apartments; Pine Valley Apartments
Meal Distribution Times: 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. while supplies last
Eligibility: Open to all students in Howard County
The distributions will occur every Wednesday between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Each distribution site will also offer a hot meal for students while supplies last. If there are hot meals available at the end of the distribution time, adults may purchase a hot meal for a suggested donation of $5.
"No child should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from," said Derick Steele, Executive Director at the Kokomo Housing Authority. "Howard County’s Summer Lunch Program is committed to bridging the food gap during the summer and ensuring that our children have the resources they need to thrive."
Families interested in participating can visit designated distribution sites at the designated times or contact derick@kokomoha.org for more information.
Volunteers and donors are welcome to support the Summer Lunch Program. Community involvement is crucial to the program's success and sustainability. To volunteer or make a donation please contact the United Way serving Howard & Tipton Counties or email derick@kokomoha.org for more information.