The Foundation for Edmonds School District announced Wednesday that it was awarded an $8,400 grant from the Verdant Health Commission to support its Nourishing Network Summer Meal Program.

The meal program, made possible through the support of Verdant and other community partners, is a collaborative effort to feed hungry children over the summer months when free or reduced cost school-day lunches are not available. Free lunches are provided by FareStart, through the YMCA. Experience Momentum and Swedish Edmonds staff are also on hand to facilitate guided activities.

The program runs Monday through Friday, from July 11 through Aug. 25, and is open to any children, ages 5-18. Each day, children will receive lunch, participate in activities and games, and learn about healthy lifestyle choices.

“We are fortunate to be able to provide this valuable service to our local families in need and feel gratitude to community partners who are supporting this program” said Foundation Executive Director Deb Anderson

The Nourishing Network program is a weekend meal program to help feed homeless and low-income families in the Edmonds School District. The district has more than 640 homeless students and — on average — 7,400 families who receive free and reduced-cost lunch programs. Often these students leave school Friday and do not have another meal until Monday morning.

Donations for the Nourishing Network program can be made to the Foundation for Edmonds School District, P. O. Box 390, Lynnwood, WA 98046 or at www.foundationesd.org.