Ruth and Naomi’s Mission is stepping in to fill a void over the summer holidays.

Their Summer Lunch program for Children started this week at the Neighbourhood Learning Centre to pick up where another lunch program left off during the school year.

“We’re expecting to feed 40 kids, but I’m sure that number will grow,” said Bill Raddatz, executive director of Ruth and Naomi’s Mission.

They’ll be packing lunches with the help of volunteers and staff, in a facility provided by the Chilliwack School District, with food provided by Bowls Of Hope as well as the “good and caring citizens” of Chilliwack.

“We’re looking forward it,” he said.

The idea for free lunches to feed hungry kids through the summer came out of a discussion with their youth pastor, Cory Duetner.

They’ll be preparing soup, sandwiches and fruit for students of downtown schools like McCammon, Central and Little Mountain elementary schools.

“But if a mom and dad want to bring kids down from another catchment area, we’re not going to say no,” Raddatz underlined.

When schools shut down for summer holidays, it impacted the lunch program provided by Bowls of Hope during the school year.

“Ruth and Naomi’s Mission recognizes the goodwill that Bowls of Hope provide.”

The lunch program will run weekdays at the Neighborhood Learning Centre, adjacent Chilliwack Senior. Lunch will be served from noon to 1 p.m. with kids accompanied by parents or guardians.

“Again Ruth and Naomi’s Mission is living up to its motto of Our People, Our Community and Our Opportunity,” Raddatz added.

Anyone who would like to donate food, volunteer time or financial assistance  is asked to contact Cheryl at 604-795-2322 or www.ruthandnaomis.ca.

jfeinberg@theprogress.com

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