Local organizations work to provide meals to kids during summer

MARYLAND. – When that final bell rings to let students out for the summer, some of them may be left wondering what they’re going to eat for breakfast and lunch for the next 3 months.

Executive director of Midshore Meals Til Monday, Pamela Allen, works around the clock during the season, providing students in Dorchester County with nutritious meals.

“Kids are just little people, they want things that they like,” Allen said. “That has also been one of the things that we’re trying to do, is not only provide healthy items, but also things that they like.”

While Allen extends her outreach in Dorchester County, director of Adopt-A-Block, Mark Thompson, extends his in Wicomico County.

Through grant funding, he said his organization is able to provide children with essential meals on the first and third Saturday of every month.

“One thing about children, they don’t realize what they need to eat, they just know something sweet and they’re running all day,” Thompson said. “We want to make sure that the families understand there’s healthy foods for your children, which helps them with school and summer school.”

Working to eliminate barriers, Thompson emphasized the importance of seeking support, for the betterment of families.

“Parents, it’s OK. Just come to us. Forget that stigma, we’re all in need of something,” Thompson said. “We just want you to feel comfortable, that’s why when you come, we don’t ask for any information or paperwork. We just want you to feel free to talk to us.”

Midshore Meals Til Monday also offers emergency meals. To request assistance, you can visit www.MidshoreMealsTilMonday.org or call 443-225-6789.