While students look forward to summer as a time for swimming, playing, and enjoying the sunshine, it can also increase worries about food. With almost 50 percent of Kent School District students qualifying for free and reduced-priced meals throughout the school year, the costs of food during school breaks can put a strain on families.

Lynne Mayer, our summer meals supervisor, was recognized by the No Kid Hungry Foundation as one of their five Summer Meal Heroes from across the country for her dedication to providing nutritious foods for students all year long. No Kid Hungry is a national campaign focused on the problems of hunger and poverty in the United States and around the world.

Lynne has been a member of Team KSD since 1990 and wanted to find a way to provide nutritious meals for students all-year after seeing many of our students playing in Kent parks throughout the summer. She worked with the City of Kent to bring the summer meals program to life.

“Every child deserves good nutrition,” she said. “The Kent community has changed in the last 29 years, and more than ever children’s nutritional needs are being met outside of home and family. Today’s kids are tomorrow’s leaders and we are privileged to have the opportunity to help make good nutrition and regular meals happen for children in the Kent community.”

In the years since Lynne started the program, it’s expanded to more than 30 sites and includes games and other fun activities.

“Lynne is passionate about serving her community and doesn’t say no when a need is identified,” Sara Seelmeyer of United Way of King County said.

Representative Debra Enteman visited Lake Meridian Park on Thursday, August 15 to honor Lynne for her contributions to the community and present her with the award.

Congratulations Lynne!