Youth Come Together to Address Hunger Through Weekly Summer Food Initiative

Local Teens in Berwick Launch Weekly Summer Food Distribution to Support Families

Berwick, Pennsylvania — In response to community needs during the summer break, a group of dedicated teens from Berwick’s For the Cause Teen Center has organized a weekly food distribution program at West Berwick Elementary School. This initiative, which commenced in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to provide essential nutritional support to families in the Berwick Area School District.

Every Monday, from noon to 1 p.m., local families gather at the elementary school to receive a variety of groceries, including milk, produce, meats, and snacks. According to Danielle Pearson, the Teen Center Director, the aim of the program is to assist families in accessing nutritious food during a time when their children are not in school and may lack consistent meal options. “They’re not in school, and they don’t have easy access to those hot meals during the day,” Pearson noted.

The collaboration between the Teen Center, the Berwick Area School District, and the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank has made it possible for this food distribution effort to flourish. No pre-registration or proof of income is required for families to benefit from the program, emphasizing its accessibility. “Anyone who lives in the Berwick Area School District can show up and receive assistance,” Pearson explained.

Since its inception, the program has served as a vital resource for numerous families, including those directly connected to the Teen Center. Many families who utilize the center’s services also participate in the food distributions. Pearson highlighted the profound impact of the initiative, stating, “It’s inspiring to hear from teens and their families how much this helps them get through the week.”

What sets this program apart is not only the distribution of food but also the involvement of local teenagers who organize, pack, and distribute the items. Their active participation fosters a relaxed atmosphere, breaking down stigmas often associated with food assistance programs. “It’s not a formal process. People come in, and the kids are just there, having fun while giving out food,” Pearson described, reflecting the laid-back yet impactful approach to the initiative.

The summer food distribution program will continue every Monday until the first week of August. As the school year approaches, local leaders and volunteers hope to continue finding innovative solutions to address food insecurity in the community, ensuring that no family goes hungry. This grassroots effort not only bolsters local families but also cultivates a sense of responsibility and community service among the teenagers involved, setting a powerful example for future generations.