Duplin County Schools launches summer meals initiative to combat food insecurity

KENANSVILLE — The Duplin County Schools Child Nutrition Department has recently announced the start of its summer meals program. This initiative aims to address food insecurity by providing free, healthy meals for children and teens aged 18 and under now through Aug. 22.

“Meals include a nutritious lunch and the next day’s breakfast,” explained Lindsay M. Skidmore with Duplin County Schools. Extra meals for the weekend will be provided on designated pick-up days at eight school sites across Duplin County to ensure children have access to nourishing food every day of the week, even when school is not in session.

Meals can be picked up at the following school sites: Rose Hill-Magnolia Elementary, Kenansville Elementary, Beulaville Elementary, Warsaw Elementary, North Duplin Elementary, Wallace Elementary, B.F. Grady Elementary, and Wallace-Rose Hill High School.

The schedule changes slightly throughout the summer to better serve families:

• Now through June 30, meals can be picked up Monday through Friday from noon to 1 p.m., with Friday pick-ups including meals for Saturday and Sunday.

• From July 1 through July 31, pick-up will be Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. additionally Thursday pick-up will include meals for Friday through Sunday.

Lastly, from Aug. 1 through Aug. 22, meal boxes will be distributed on Mondays only, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with seven-day meal boxes packed with breakfast and lunch for the entire week.

According to the announcement, starting July 1, the program will expand meal access to local churches and community organizations. Specific site details will be made available on the Duplin County Schools website. Organizations interested in hosting a meal site can call L’nette Stokes at 910-296-8786 for information.

Menus are designed to be both nutritious and appealing to children, ensuring they receive the essential vitamins and minerals they need. Families can collect meals for one child or multiple children. Menus and food safety guidelines will be posted at each meal site and online at www.duplinschools.net.

No prior sign-up, identification, or payment is required to receive meals.