OZARK, Ala. (WDNews) –
Children in Ozark won’t have to worry about missing meals this summer thanks to the city’s free Summer Meals Program.
The initiative, funded by the City of Ozark, is hosted at Autrey Recreation Center at 749 W. Reynolds St. Children 18 and under can receive both breakfast and lunch at no cost Monday through Friday during the months of June and July.
Breakfast is served from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., and lunch is offered from noon to 1 p.m.
Victoria Shaw, who oversees the Autrey Recreation Center and manages the summer meals program, said the effort is about ensuring no child goes hungry when school is out.
“It is important for us to feed the kids while they are on break from school because some kids do not have access to healthy meals during summer months,” Shaw said. “The City of Ozark understands the importance of this program and has funded it so that it provides these meals entirely free of charge for children 18 and under.”
Parents are encouraged to bring their children for meals each weekday. Shaw noted that food assistance is nothing to be ashamed of, especially as grocery prices continue to rise.
“I am doing this because I enjoy it,” she added. “Anytime I can help feed a child brings a smile to my face. To see a kid eat a healthy meal brings me so much joy.”
The Autrey Recreation Center also offers additional community programs, including a community garden, after-school activities, cooking classes, and Zumba fitness, which is expected to resume in September.
For more information about the summer meals program, contact Victoria Shaw at (334) 774-2042.
