Free school lunch program

(6/21) The Walkersville library has kicked off its free summer lunch program. According to the Library Branch Administrator, Levi Branson, "Summer is a booming time at the library," he explained. "Every summer we provide fun activities and programs for all ages."

The free summer lunch program was started in 2019, and the Library has served almost 15,000 lunches since then with approximately 4,000 served last year alone. "Many families rely on the lunch provided by the school during the academic year and when school is not in session the library’s program fulfills that need to ensure that children have access to a weekly meal," said Branson. The Program provides free lunch from 12 to 1, for ages toddler to 18 from June 16 to August 15. The bagged lunches will include a main entree, a side, a snack and bottled water.

In prior years, the lunches were prepped and distributed by the Library’s staff. This year, the Library is offering it as a volunteer opportunity open to teens and adults to help meet any needs for service hours and to bring the community together in the preparation of the lunches. Another change from last year is the inclusion of information on community resources for families. This information includes information on the "back to school project" by Glade Valley Community Services (GVCS).

Also new this year, Branson welcomed the community to come into the Library to eat the free lunch. "This year we are inviting the Community to stay with us and eat lunch inside the library in the community room," said Branson. "It’s a great space for some community socializing and of course free air conditioning."

Every year the Town Council aids the Program by providing funding. This support joins contributions from the Friends of the Library and GVCS. Branson explained that GVCS typically gives $5,000 and the Town provides $2,500 to $3,000. Even though the cost of supplies has gone up, Branson said they are not asking for more funding than what they received last year. "I can confirm that [the requested $2,500] will meet our needs for this year," said Branson. He also said the food items themselves are purchased from a discount club, which helps keep the costs down.