Many children eligible for schools’ free and reduced-priced lunch programs face a great risk for hunger when school is not in session. To counteract that problem, IMPACT Bethel is offering local children a place to get a free meal during the long summer break.
Children up to the age of 18 who live within the Tecumseh School District and the greater New Carlisle area are invited to take part in the Kids Summer Lunch program. Children can enjoy a free, home-cooked lunch every Monday through Friday between 12:00 PM and 12:30 PM (except for July fourth) at Smith Park in New Carlisle and at Raynor Park in Park Layne.
Director Mert Christmann says the non-profit IMPACT Bethel program was started several years ago by a group of Bethel Township and Western Clark County residents who wanted to make a difference in the greater New Carlisle community. Christmann says the Kids Summer Lunch program is an example of how the inter-denominational IMPACT Bethel is fulfilling the organization’s mission to be “a vehicle empowering all sectors of Bethel Township and Clark County, resulting in a stronger community.”
“Bethel Twp. has a high rate of students on the free and reduced lunch program,” says Christmann, “IMPACT Bethel’s summer lunch program ensures those students have something to eat, so there is little disruption for them in the way of meals.” There is an added bonus to the program, “We serve the meals at a park so it encourages the kids get out of the house, then get exercise by playing on the playground.
In the past, IMPACT Bethel has served an average of 34,000 meals during its Kids Summer Lunch program.
The volunteers say they benefit as well, “The adults enjoy the program because we get to know the kids and families in the community. We also get to hang out and play with the kids for an hour during the day...and really, how much more fun can you have than that?” asks Christmann.
Those wishing to get involved in IMPACT Bethel and/or the Kids Summer Lunch program may contact Mert Christmann at (937)605-1210. IMPACT Bethel is located at 468 N Dayton-Lakeview Road New Carlisle, Ohio 45344.
