The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Library provides free lunches to children
Services offered at Main, Domonkas branches
The Lorain Public Library System this summer has provided free lunches for local children.
On Aug. 2, several children gathered for The Free Kids Free Lunch Program at the South Lorain Branch, 2121 Homewood Drive.
“It’s something the system does at the Main Branch (351 W. Sixth St.) and Domonkas (4125 Lake Road in Sheffield Lake) during the summertime,” said Niccole Paytosh, a library associate I.
Paytosh said the program was created as a response to food insecurity.
“I think people are more aware of it now more than ever before,” she said.
“It’s an issue that is no longer in the dark, and I’m glad the Lorain Public Library System is doing something about it.”
Paytosh said the lunches are balanced and include healthy choices.
“They are usually comprised of some type of lunch meat,” Paytosh said.
“Today, we have bologna sandwiches. But prior weeks have included ham and turkey.
“They also contain a fruit and vegetable. They’ve contained broccoli and carrots in the past along with apples. It’s then topped off with chocolate milk.”
Paytosh said the event also includes reading and a craft.
“I choose a familyfriendly book to read to the kids,” she said. “I then have a craft ready for them as well.
“Today’s craft is dragon fliers. They are basically paper airplanes that the kids can decorate; they’re pretty cool. One time we did a perler beads bracelet and the kids ended up going over
the time limit by an hour. It’s nice when they come here and they get excited about the activity.”
Joanna Serrano, of Lorain, brought her family for the free lunch event.
“We live right across the road, so we walk over all the time,” Serrano said. “This gives them a good snack and allows them to enjoy an activity.
“My kids really like to color and work crafts. The library also provides many great events. It helps because I home school my kids, so it allows them to come out and socialize with their peers.”