Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank launches summer meal program to fight child hunger

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — As summer break begins, thousands of children across south Louisiana are at risk of going hungry without access to school meals. To meet this critical need, the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank is launching a seasonal program to provide free meals to kids and teens in rural areas.

Starting in June, the food bank will operate 13 summer meal distribution sites across 11 parishes, focusing on regions where grocery stores and food assistance are limited.

“When you talk about the number of children who are food insecure or hungry in our area, it’s a challenge,” said Mike Manning, President and CEO of the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank.

Each child 18 and under is eligible to receive one meal box per week, containing seven days’ worth of shelf-stable breakfasts and lunches—no cooking or refrigeration required. No ID, proof of income, or citizenship status is necessary to participate.

“All they need to do is identify their site, pay attention to the date, and show up to get the food,” Manning explained.

The initiative is funded in part by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and carried out in partnership with local libraries, churches, and community organizations.

The Food Bank is deliberately targeting rural areas, as larger parishes like East Baton Rouge already have federally supported programs in place.

“Our goal is to address food insecurity where it’s not already being covered,” said Manning. “Don’t be afraid or hesitant—this is about your kids.”

The program runs through early August. Families can text “FOOD” or “COMIDA” to 304-304 to find the nearest participating location.

Summer Meal Site Locations and Schedules

(Sample of 5 sites listed below. Visit the Food Bank’s website for the full list.)

• St. Helena Branch Library – Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., June 5–Aug. 7
• Clinton Branch Library – Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., June 4–Aug. 6
• Morganza Branch Library – Tuesdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., June 3–July 29
• Grosse Tete Branch Library – Mondays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., June 2–Aug. 4
• Erwinville Community Children’s Org. – Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., June 3–July 29

Want to Help?

The Food Bank is also in need of donations and volunteers to support this summer’s operations. To get involved, visit brfoodbank.org or call the Food Bank directly.

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