Spotlight on Our Partners: District 209 Offers Free Summer Lunches

It is important for kids to have access to healthy meals and this summer our partners at Proviso Township High School District 209 have provided free lunches for kids 18 & under at Proviso West and East High Schools.

Food service employees prepare the meals Monday through Thursday for summer school students and young community members. That means fruits, vegetables, milk, grains, and meats are available to help sustain the kids for part of their day.

“A lot of kids, their school meal is their main meal that they have. We try to make sure that we offer them the same nutritious meals that they’re able to get during the school year, even if it's just for lunch,” said Jennifer Wachowski, Proviso West’s food service supervisor.

Wachowski said they have been feeding fewer children this summer because not as many students are enrolled in summer school. Still, West40 observed food service employees greeting kids with smiles and enthusiasm during a recent lunch.

“It feels good. We have a very close relationship with our students and a lot of times we know which students are struggling more than others, so it’s good to see them come from the community during the summer and we’re able to check in on them and still build that rapport with them,” Wachowski said.

Free lunch menu items have included burgers, chicken sandwiches, chicken alfredo, pasta, and more.  Additionally, food service teams have also prepared breakfast 

The free summer lunch program at District 209 ends Thursday, July 24.