Summer Food Program at the Y Helps Combat Hunger

As families gear up for the busy summer season, the excitement of vacations, outdoor activities, and time together can often overshadow a harsh reality: for many, putting food on the table is a daily struggle. The latest Household Food Security report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture paints a sobering picture, revealing that 47.4 million people, including 13.8 million children, lived in households facing food insecurity last year. This marks a significant increase in hunger, with 3.2 million more people going without enough food compared to the year before. As summer approaches, it’s crucial to remember that for many families, access to nutritious meals is not guaranteed, and the need for programs to address this challenge has never been greater.

Over 30 million children participate in the National School Lunch program during the school year. Out of these children, only 15 in 100 eligible kids have access to free, healthy meals and snacks over summer break, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). 1 in 5 children age 18 and under live in a household with food insecurity, defined as being unable to consistently access nutritious and adequate amounts of food necessary for a healthy life.

The Y is working to fill that gap and will help keep children healthy and well-nourished this summer, ensuring that kids reach their full potential. Children enrolled in Early Childhood Education Programs, including daycare, preschool and summer day camp, will receive both food and fun through nutritious meals and snacks, while also enjoying recreational and learning activities aimed at keeping bodies and minds active. Y sites across the country, including the Greater Scranton YMCA, will offer the Summer Food Program. While daycare and preschool operate year-round, the Summer Day Camp Program runs from June 9^th through August 22^nd. Thanks to the Summer Food Service Program and our sponsor, the Scranton School District, campers will receive a healthy lunch daily.

During the Greater Scranton YMCA’s 2023-2024 fiscal year, 69,490 meals and snacks were served to 653 children enrolled in summer camp, after school and early childhood education programs. This year marks the program’s thirteenth year and the Y’s ongoing commitment to helping kids achieve their full potential by nurturing their physical, mental and social-emotional development.

To learn more about the Greater Scranton YMCA’s Summer Day Camp, Early Childhood Education and Food Program, contact Tressa Capoccia, Senior Education Director, at [email protected] or visit www.greaterscrantonymca.org.