By JAYLINN PFEIFER
For Hays Post

Hays USD 489’s annual Kids Café will be from May 29 to Aug. 3. This program provides a free lunch for kids who are 18 and younger who would like to be in the summer food service program. The program has been going on for more than 20 years.

“We are excited because this year will be the first year for a new summer snack program at the library in the afternoons,” said Jessica Younker, Director of Nutrition Services at USD 489.

There is need for healthy foods when school is out, and the lunches allow the kids who are in the community to get out of the house, eat a well-balanced meal and socialize.

There are surveys taken at the end of the summer each year — 95 percent being very complimentary and requesting the program to return again the following year.

“I enjoy the fresh fruits and vegetables provided that I don’t always buy for myself at the store. I also enjoy seeing how pleased and thankful the kids and parents who attend the program are,” Younker said.

The program will be every weekday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Early Childhood Connection, 305 Main. The meals are free for students, but $3.75 for adults.