Norwalk schools expand summer meal program; Boys & Girls Club funding uncertain after summer

Norwalk City School District staff told the board the district will run an expanded summer meal program this year with partner organizations, and that Boys & Girls Club will operate at local sites through the summer but may not have funding to continue past the season.

A district staff member said the program served an average of 621 meals per day over 37 serving days last year and that the district has signed agreements with the Salvation Army, local churches, Goodwill and volunteers to increase reach this year. "Salvation Army last year, they wanna do their own thing. This year, they wanted to merge with us," the staffer said.

The district will continue service at three school locations and will add meal drop-offs to community "hot spots" that partner groups will deliver to, the presenter said. Meals are bagged and ready-to-eat; daily service will include lunch and next-day breakfast and expanded Friday bags covering weekends. The presenter said the district will seek reimbursement for a portion of summer meals from state and federal programs.

Officials also said Boys and Girls Club will remain open at the district’s 32 local sites for the coming summer, but funding for the program beyond the summer is uncertain. The presenter said the district has discussed possible transitions with local ministerial groups and other partners to maintain after-school and enrichment services in the school year if the Boys and Girls Club cannot continue.

District staff described volunteer needs, registration via an online form (not required but requested), and plans to use grant funds for meal totes and supplies. The board thanked staff and partners, and no formal action was required beyond information and coordination.