Online map points the way to free lunches for U.S. children
The US state of Missouri is harnessing the power of online to help vulnerable families this summer.
With many families relying on school nutrition programmes to ensure their children can eat well, they will be able to benefit from a new online interactive map showing the locations of free food programmes.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Summer Food Program wants the state-wide scheme to bridge the gap that opens once schools close for the summer holidays. It is open to eligible children aged 18 or under.
Many of the programmes are located in the major cities like Kansas, St Louis and Springfield, but they are also dotted around dozens of other towns across the state. All of the programmes are free, and families do not need to register their children in advance.
The Department of Agriculture is funding the programmes, which will be delivered in a range of community organisations, including schools, churches, parks, swimming pools and boys & girls’ clubs.
