Children and youth up to age 18 can receive free lunches this summer, thanks to a collaboration among United Way of North Central Connecticut, local nonprofit organizations and government.

Beginning June 28th and running through August 27th, The Lunch Bunch will offer free lunches at Saint Patrick’s Church Hall at 64 Pearl Street in Thompsonville, Monday through Friday from noon to 1:00 p.m. Any child or young person 18 or under may attend, and there is no need to register to participate. In addition to lunch, a fun activity will be offered after the meal.

The Lunch Bunch is the result of a collaboration among Enfield Food Shelf, Community Renewal Team, End Hunger Connecticut!, Foodshare, Saint Patrick’s Parish, the Town of Enfield Social Services and United Way of North Central Connecticut.

Because of this program, lower-income children in our town won’t have to go hungry during the summertime,” said Pam Brown, director of social services for the Town of Enfield. “Our schools offer free and reduced-price lunches during the academic year, but the summer presented a challenge. Now we have a solution.”

Funding for The Lunch Bunch has been provided by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service, United Way of North Central Connecticut and Foodshare. Community Renewal Team is sponsoring the program and will be preparing the lunches.

To learn more about The Lunch Bunch, call (860) 253-6396 or dial United Way’s free 2-1-1 help and information line.