Three Cobb County libraries are hosting a summer meal program in June and July to give children access to free breakfast and lunch, meals typically served during the school year for free or at reduced costs for those in financial need.
The North Cobb Regional Library in Kennesaw, the South Cobb Regional Library in Mableton and the Switzer Library in Marietta will serve as host locations for Happy Helpings, Georgia’s summer food service program in partnership with Georgia Educational Resources.
Meals will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis free for those under 18 starting June 5 and ending July 28. No meals will be served the week of July 3 due to the Independence Day holiday.
At the North Cobb library, breakfast will be offered from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and lunch will be from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays.
At the South Cobb library, breakfast will be offered from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and lunch will be from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
At the Switzer library, breakfast will be offered from 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., and lunch will be from 11:30 a.m to 12:15 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Summer meal sites are located throughout the state of Georgia. To find a location, go to www.decal.ga.gov/Nutrition/Search.aspx.
This year marks the fourth that Cobb County has participated in the program. Last year, 26,950 meals were given out to 1,925 children through the county library locations, a county news release says. Adults who are enrolled in school programs for people with disabilities are also eligible to receive meals.
“It is difficult to learn, concentrate, or even have the energy to play when you’re hungry,” said Terri Tresp, the library system’s division director of branch services. “The Happy Helpings program provides nutritious meals and snacks to children that can improve their summer experience.”
