I continue to be positively impressed by the incredible amount of caring for others that occurs here in this community that I love. While we often hear negativity and polarization there are many salient examples of exactly the opposite – networks of care and links of caring across the spectrum of our Milton.
For a great many of us, lunch time is a daily routine consisting of a bit of rest from our duties, something to eat, and a time to connect with friends and co-workers. Our biggest lunch decision may be what to pull out of the fridge and take in a bag to work, what drive-through to use today, or what selection to make at our café or restaurant. Lunch typically causes us few worries or concerns of any real significance.
But what if – there was little or no food in our fridge or cupboards and the paycheck would not arrive for several days, or other obligations had taken precedence thereby pushing food down the list? Lunch would become much more concerning and cause it to quickly become the focus of our worries, concerns, and stress.
You might ask, “Do we even have that kind of hunger issue in Milton?”. The answer is a definitive yes. Twenty-five percent of the families in our school district are eligible for the State mandated free and reduced lunch program. That translates to 1 of every 4 students. This is a great program during the school year but that leaves questions about these same rising Red Hawks during the summer when there is no school
Enter the Milton Summer Lunch Bunch. This “Bunch” is a group of volunteers who plan, organize, administer, and distribute free lunches during the summer. I expect that many are familiar with this program, but I also know that many are not.
This program has been around for a number of years and is currently operated as drive-through pick-up at a couple of locations. The Milton Summer Lunch Bunch doesn’t just happen. It is the result of many caring people volunteering their time, energy, and their hearts to feed others. I am sure you can imagine the many moving pieces, and administrative tasks required to make this program a success. They don’t agonize about loving their neighbor – rather, they simply behave in ways that show they do. They have stepped-up in kindness rather than being frozen in apathy.
The food for this program doesn’t simply materialize. It comes from many, many generous individuals, businesses, and other entities. Some are able to provide food, some time and volunteers, some supplies, and some financial support.
In addition to providing food, Summer Lunch Bunch also provides soul nourishment by creating a sense of belonging and inclusiveness spanning boundaries for all participants.
Your time and/or financial contributions are welcome. Thank you to all who make this program part of the very fabric of our great community.
After all, WE ARE MILTON
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