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Prepared by Brenda Rust O’Beirne, September 1, 2024

The Milton Summer Lunch Bunch Program has provided lunches to the school children of Milton since 2018. Each year, there has been a different approach, different funding methods, and different numbers of menus and meals served. As we prepared for the 2024 program, it was important to us that we work collaboratively. A team was formed in February of 2024 and the group met monthly to discuss tasks that needed to be completed to have a successful program. The team included members from four Milton churches and the school district. The involvement of persons from the schools was especially
important to the marketing and implementation of the program.

Support from the Milton Community – in the form of financial contributions and volunteers – created a successful program.

Listed below are some highlights of the program this summer:

• We fed children – nutritious and kid-friendly lunches!! And we expressed our care for the families of our community!
• There was tremendous collaboration between and among the schools, churches, businesses, and all volunteers. The community embraced the program and its goals.
• Our volunteers were amazing! Approximately 200 volunteers were involved with various parts of the program!
• Product donations by Frito Lay, Seneca, Kwik Trip, and the Milton Food Pantry eased the need for more cash resources
• Advance planning facilitated good communication between the schools, the planning team, and families. There was excellent marketing.
• The program was highlighted by local news media, including the Milton Courier and Channel 3. This coverage helped to enhance awareness.
• There was an opportunity to strengthen existing relationships and build new ones through the shared experience of making and distributing meals! 

As we look to 2025, we will build on all we learned this year!