NCC Monroe Feeds Those in Need

BETHLEHEM, PA (06/27/2018) Pocono Mountains Hunger Coalition of Monroe County United Way has partnered with Northampton Community College (NCC) to bring no-cost meals to children ages 18 and under at the NCC Monroe Campus. The partnership between the Coalition and NCC is intended to supplement food sources in a healthy, resourceful and educational way in addition to stressing the importance of nutrition and the effect of hunger on vulnerable populations, such as youth, in the community.

Breakfast is served from 8 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. in the Pocono Hall Food Court, and a hot lunch is served from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m. at the same location. This is open to all kids 18 and under with no eligibility requirements. Children enrolled in NCC's Horizons for Youth summer programs at the college can also take advantage of the free meals.

"It's been great to see kids come in who otherwise who would not have a meal. Lunch has been especially popular. Some parents will collect children in their neighborhood and carpool to the college," notes Dee Raneri, associate director of community education at NCC.

This is the first year NCC has been involved with the free lunch program in Monroe County. It runs Monday through Thursday on NCC Monroe Campus and started June 18. The program will run until August 9.

Raneri says, "Most of the free lunch programs are done in elementary schools, parks and libraries, and this is the only college offering it. I think it will continue to gain popularity as the summer goes on, and it's something we look forward to doing next year as well."

The Pocono Mountains Hunger Coalition meets the third Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. in Keystone Room 242 at NCC Monroe Campus. Anyone interested in addressing hunger in the community is encouraged to attend. For questions, please contact Jennifer Strauch through the contact form at https://unitedwaymonroe.org/contact-us/.