Etna summer lunch program serves people in need
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This summer, Elfinwild Presbyterian Church and Etna borough are partnering to help people experiencing food insecurity by providing free lunches to people of all ages.
The meals are available from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays, at the Etna Borough Building, 437 Butler St. No registration is required, according to Elfinwild church member Eileen Hughes.
Etna Manager Mary Ellen Ramage said that council approved the program site after securing the church’s proof of insurance and Allegheny County Health Department food safety approval.
“We are happy to help them serve members of our community, especially our children,” Ramage said. “It is an awesome gesture as many people today struggle providing for their families and with school out, there is a greater concern that all our children are getting enough to eat during the summer months.”
Last summer, Elfinwild Presbyterian teamed up with Calvert Memorial in Etna for a summer lunch program.
“By the beginning of July, we were serving 40 to 50 (meals) a week. So many children and families are food deprived. During the school year, there are lunch programs to support the need, but summer provides a challenge to have healthy food options,” Hughes said. “But this ministry goes beyond this need. We are forming relationships and speaking about the love of Christ.”
This year, volunteers will prepare the meals at Elfinwild Presbyterian Church’s kitchen and transport them to the borough building.
Organizers would appreciate donations of the following items to support the program, which can be left at Elfinwild Presbyterian Church, 3200 Mt. Royal Blvd., Glenshaw: packaged cookies, single-servings of chips, King’s Hawaiian Rolls, sandwich bags, juice boxes, fresh fruit and monetary donations for purchasing food.