Many Philly Families Unaware About Kids Summer Feeding Programs
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Organizers of summer feeding programs for children say many families just don't know that the free meals are available.
The school year is over. But the lunch bell rang at St. Veronica's School in North Philadelphia, and children lined-up to get their boxed lunch from the Eagles mascot Swoop, and U-S Senator Bob Casey.
"We know that when you're taking a summer vacation, and taking time off for the summer away from school, hunger doesn't take a vacation."
Laura Wall, the executive director of the Greater Philadelphia Coalition Against Hunger, says last summer 4.4 million meals were served in the city. But there is the potential for many more.
"In the city, in Philadelphia, it's really that parents aren't aware of it. And with 1400 sites within the Philadelphia region, there are sites in every neighborhood."
She says only about 40 percent of Philadelphia children who get free or reduced price meals during the school year take advantage of the free summer meals.
More info is available at hungercoalition.org.