What's Happening in Huntington, NY…

In order to help the growing number of children living in difficult circumstances, the Island Harvest Food Bank has enlarged its summer program, known as the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), to include 55 locations throughout Long Island.

Two of these are in Huntington Station: the Huntington Public Library, and the Manor Field Family Center.

With some children only enjoying one nutritious meal per day—the one they get at school – they often have trouble getting enough to eat when school is not in session.

Last year, the program provided 3,500 children with 103,000 meals, which it served via 49 sites in Suffolk and Nassau counties. This year, the program is increasing the number of meals served, the number of children involved, and the number of sites used. SFSP estimates it will provide 4,000 youngsters with 175,000 meals from 55 different sites. As noted, the Manor and the library are new to the list of sites this year.

Meals are provided free of charge to all children under 18 who qualify for the assistance. Requirements to join the program are the same for all children regardless of disability, age, gender, national origin, color, or race.

Food bank officials might consider working with a flyer printing company on a mailer for area residents describing the program and encouraging qualified families to apply.