The dates are set for Spring Break 2012 - March 26-30. This is a time when schools let out for a week of vacation, but it is also a time when children, who normally receive free or reduced-price lunch at school, are at risk of hunger.

Since 1993, MPFS has been administering a program called No Hungry Child during spring break week – providing several thousand lunches to youngsters at sites throughout the two-county area. This year there will be close to 40 different serving sites through partnerships with Salem/Keizer and other area school districts, Salem/Keizer Education Foundation, Sodexo, A.C. Gilbert Discovery Village and in cooperation with Salem Housing Authority, several area churches, Town & Country Lanes and other local groups.

In addition, MPFS also partners with the Reading for All programs in Marion and Polk counties to ensure children coming for lunch receive a donated children’s book to take home. At most of the lunch sites, an educational activity also will be provided.

Volunteers are needed to help serve lunches and help with activities at lunch sites. If you are able to help, please contact Janet Spingath at 503-581-3855, ext. 311.