United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Kicks Off Summer Meal Program

DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF News ) – A number of non-profits in North Texas are rolling out their summer meal programs for kids who are experiencing food insecurity.

Many North Texas children were getting their meals from free-programs while in school and are need of the help to sustain them during the summer months.

The United Way of Metropolitan kicked off its program this week and expects to serve around two million meals to 60,000 kids this year at various partner agencies across the region.

Ashley Douglas is senior director within the organization and said that signing up is easy. Anyone under 18 is eligible to enroll.

“Families and kiddos are welcome to go and locate one of these sites to enroll their kids in one of our summer enrichment programs so that they can get the free meals for the duration of the summer,” said Douglas.

Many non-profits have said they’re trying to keep up the growing need of people who are in need of help.

Douglas said they’ve seen an exponential jump in need over the past year due to the ripple effect from the COVID-19 pandemic along with ongoing inflation.

“What we saw just in 2021 alone, is around 10 million meals being served between Dallas and Collin Counties. So, we saw around a five time increase in what we generally see here,” she said.

To find a meal site near you, call “211” or text “FOOD” or “COMIDA” to 877 877. Click here for more information.

Other organizations like Kids Bring Life in Carrollton and Dallas Parks and Recreation are also offering summer meal programs.

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