Keystone Central’s summer meals program to serve children countywide at two sites

Keystone Central School District staff told the board on March 12 that the district has Pennsylvania Department of Education approval to operate a free summer meals program this summer at two sites: Central Mountain Middle School and Renovo Elementary.

Sharon, who leads the program, said the district will offer bundled breakfasts and lunches to children ages 1–18 from the wider community (no district enrollment required). Distribution will occur on Mondays (four bundled breakfasts and lunches) and a second distribution day each week (Thursdays) covering three additional days; meals are provided on a first‑come, first‑served basis until supplies run out and no registration is required. The program will use a roster to capture parent/guardian and child names to prevent duplication and will include food‑safety information in the meal bags.

Sharon told the board the program served 10,228 breakfasts and lunches during a four‑week run last year, and staff adjusted logistics this year to prepare meals at Renovo Elementary rather than using satellite preparation. The district is also introducing a traffic‑flow plan at high‑use sites to reduce confusion after last year’s high turnout.

Sharon said she planned a radio announcement in late April to publicize site and schedule details. Board members encouraged coordination with nearby schools and community groups to expand reach and minimize duplication.

The board thanked staff and the community volunteers who supported last year’s operation and encouraged continued outreach to ensure broad participation.