Around March 1, it begins. The days are longer. The flowers are blooming and children get a case of spring fever.
By the end of the month spring fever is rampant and families are ready for Spring Break – a chance to travel, enjoy some free time with family or visit relatives.
Unfortunately, for many children in the Silver Falls and Mount Angel school districts, a week away from school may mean boredom, unhappiness and unsupervised free time.
It also may mean going without a meal.
Fortunately, the Marion Polk Food Share has a plan to help students eat and have fun during Spring Break.
During the SuperFunHappyBreakTime, there will be free activities, books and lunch available to students in both school districts.
The program runs from noon to 1 p.m.
Monday, March 21, through Friday, March 25.
The Spring Break lunch program began in 1993 after area teachers expressed concern that their students may not have enough food to eat during the vacation from school.
The program has grown, serving more than 7,000 meals last year. It is organized and run in partnership with community organizations and relies on the time of volunteers to make meals, deliver and serve food and lead activities.
Students in Mount Angel can go to St. Mary’s Elementary School, 590 E. College St., for activities and lunch.
In Silverton, students can visit Eugene Field Elementary School, 410 N Water St.
For Salem residents, there are also lunch sites. A complete list is available online at www.marionpolkfoodshare.org.
