Keith Dixon: Kids don't have to go hungry

I've been extremely fortunate in my life never to have experienced real hunger. The rumblings of an empty stomach, sure, but I'm talking about deep-seated hunger that includes an element of fear because you haven't eaten in a long while and you don't know where your next meal is coming from.

It's something we may not think about if we have a full refrigerator or the wherewithal to swing around a drive-through or stop at one of Duluth's many fine eateries for a satisfying meal. But the fact is, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, about 14 million children nationwide depend on free or reduced-price school lunches and breakfasts for nine months out of the year.

The poverty rate in our own school district is about 40 percent, and there are children and families for whom regular, satisfying and nutritious meals are not a given. They rely on their local school for those two meals a day.

When school lets out in June, the regular school breakfast and lunch programs are no longer available and, due to tight family budgets or other circumstances, children may not receive regular, wholesome meals.

Educators know that children who miss meals are more likely to suffer illness, be absent or tardy, inattentive or disruptive in class. They may also score lower on achievement tests.

Good nutrition enhances the learning process and, unfortunately, summer vacation for some students can increase the risk of hunger and developmental decline.

Learning doesn't end when school lets out, and neither does the need for good nutrition. That's why the U.S. Department of Agriculture works with local school districts to fund a summer lunch program.

We're fortunate to have programs in Duluth at the following schools:

• Lincoln Park Elementary, 2424 W. Fifth St.

• Laura MacArthur Elementary, 727 N. Central Ave.

• Morgan Park Middle School, 1243 88th Ave. W.

• Nettleton Elementary, 108 E. Sixth St.

• Grant Elementary, 1027 N. Eighth Ave. E.

The program helps children receive the nutrition they need to learn, play and grow throughout the summer months when they're out of school.
Parents benefit from some help in stretching their food dollars and by knowing their children are receiving healthy meals in a supportive environment.

Meals are provided at no charge to youth 18 years old and younger; adults who accompany their children can purchase a meal for $3.50.

Service runs from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day and the program operates June 9 through Aug. 28, with no service on July 3.

Menus include a variety of foods: hot entrees, salads, sandwiches, vegetables, fruits, bread, milk and dessert items.

Last year this program served almost 39,000 meals in Duluth. With our country experiencing tough economic times and the cost of living rising, it's possible we'll serve many more this year.

If your child could benefit from the summer lunch program, please visit one of the participating schools between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

If you'd like more information, please call our nutrition staff at 336-8707; they'd be happy to speak with you.

Keith Dixon is the superintendent of Duluth Public Schools. His office is located in the Old Central High School, 215 N. First Ave. E., Duluth, MN 55802. Call him at (218) 336-8752 or send an e-mail to keith.dixon@duluth.k12.mn.us .