District Four’s Summer Meal Program
By: Tracy Sanders | tracy@thewoodrufftimes.com
Enoree, SC – The bustling activity at Enoree First Baptist Church is a heartening sight, as dozens of children and their families gather to receive nutritious meals provided by Spartanburg County School District Four’s summer meal program. This initiative, which serves all children 18 and under, has become a lifeline for many in the community, ensuring that no child goes hungry during the summer months.
The program, initially launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, continues to thrive thanks to legislation allowing non-congregate meal distribution, meaning children do not need to eat on-site. This flexibility has been crucial in reaching more children, especially those unable to attend daily meal programs such as summer school.
As Audra Terry, District Four’s Food Service Director, explained, “As long as children are not enrolled in a daily meal program, they are eligible to receive meals.”
Serving approximately 450 to 500 children with 5 breakfasts and 5 lunches per week, the program’s primary mission is clear: to ensure children have access to nutritious food during the summer, saving families both time and money.
The meals, adhere to USDA nutritional guidelines, ensuring that every child receives balanced and healthy food. “We follow the USDA’s nutritional guidelines for the National School Lunch Program,” Terry noted, emphasizing the importance of providing high-quality meals.
The reach of the program extends to several key locations within the district, including Bellview Baptist, Woodruff Church of God, New Hope in Cross Anchor, Cedar Shoals Baptist, and Woodruff High School. The selection of these sites is strategic, ensuring broad access across the community.
Social media, internal staff emails, and word-of-mouth through church congregations play pivotal roles in spreading the word about the program.
The involvement of local churches has been instrumental, with volunteers stepping up to distribute meals and support the initiative.
One of the notable challenges is ensuring there is enough food for everyone without creating waste. “We try to prepare, and we’ve not run out yet. But it’s always a concern because you don’t want to over-prepare and have waste, especially with providing five breakfasts and five lunches.”
Community partners like Jeff Taylor from Taylor Boys Produce play a significant role in the program’s success. Taylor’s involvement in delivering meals to various locations underscores the importance of strong community partnerships.
The impact of the program is profound, with countless stories of gratitude and support from the community. “I’ve had a lot of thank-yous and no negative feedback. Our counts are higher this year than last, indicating the growing need and appreciation for the program.”
The program has also highlighted the broader issues facing the community, such as food insecurity and the need for supportive resources. Churches and other local organizations have stepped up to fill these gaps, using their networks to reach as many children as possible.
Looking to the future, there is hope for expanding the program to underserved areas. “I would be more than happy to add more locations if needed,” the coordinator stated, expressing a willingness to train new sites to ensure compliance and effective operation.
For community members wanting to get involved, there are opportunities to volunteer and support the program through local churches or by contacting Audra Terry at the District Four Administrative Office.
A significant boost to the program has come from grants provided by No Kid Hungry, a non-profit organization dedicated to ending child hunger. These grants have been instrumental in funding various aspects of the meal program, including the purchase of meal boxes and delivery logistics. Habiba Abass, a representative from No Kid Hungry, was present at the event, witnessing firsthand the positive impact of their support. “Our main priority right now is summer meals,” said Abass. “The resources and grants we provide help programs like this one ensure that children receive the nutrition they need.”
Kim Taylor, a dedicated volunteer at Enoree First Baptist, shared her experience, highlighting the personal connections formed through the program. “We know a lot of these children that we see, they’re hungry…. I know the meals are going to the right places,” Kim said. “Especially when kids come without their parents, it’s just good to see them getting the food they need.”
Spartanburg County School District Four’s summer meal program is more than just a meal distribution effort—it is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and collaboration. It ensures that children receive the nourishment they need to thrive, both physically and emotionally, during the critical summer months.
Author: Tracy Sanders
