States and cities across the country have reduced or eliminated their summer nutrition programs due to tight budgets and fewer donations. These programs primarily target children who receive a large portion of their daily nutrition at school and might be unable to do so during the summer.

The Rome City School District’s Food Service Department is continuing to offer its annual Summer Food Service Program at five city parks through August 13. Children under age 18 can receive a free lunch at any of these sites:

• Franklyn’s Field (12:15-12:45 p.m.)
• Pinti Field (noon to 12:30 p.m.)
• South James Street Playground (11:30 a.m. to noon)
• Guyer Field (12:15-12:45 p.m.) 
• Stevens Field (noon to 12:30 p.m.)

For more information on the program, contact Chris Whitmore, the district’s food service manager, at 338-6555.