Summer meal program launches at South Cobb Library and two others in the county

To support children in need, the South Cobb Regional Library in Mableton and two other Cobb County libraries are hosting a summer meal program in June and July to provide access to free breakfast and lunch for those under 18. 

Adults who are enrolled in school programs for people with disabilities are also eligible to receive meals. These are meals that children are served during the school year for free or at a reduced cost for those in financial need.

The North Cobb Regional Library in Kennesaw and the Switzer Library in Marietta are teaming up with the library in South Cobb to host locations for Happy Helpings, Georgia’s summer food service program, which is conducted in partnership with Georgia Educational Resources.

Meals are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and will be served through July 28. Due to the Independence Day holiday, no meals will be served the week of July 3. 

At the South Cobb Library – on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays:

• Breakfast will be offered from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
• Lunch will be from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

North Cobb Library – on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays:

• Breakfast will be offered from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
• Lunch will be from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The Switzer Library – on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays:

• Breakfast will be offered from 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
• Lunch will be from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.  

In 2022, 26,950 meals were given out to 1,925 children through county library locations. Summer meal sites are located throughout the state of Georgia. To find a location near you, go to www.decal.ga.gov/ Nutrition/Search.aspx.

Said Terri Tresp, the library system’s division director of branch services, “It is difficult to learn, concentrate, or even have the energy to play when you’re hungry. The Happy Helpings program provides nutritious meals and snacks to children that can improve their summer experience.”