Non-profit steps in to feed Macon children as Summer Meals Program ends

Mentors Project of Bibb County to provide meals to 500 children weekly

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Bibb County School District’s Summer Meals Program has ended, but a local non-profit is stepping in to make sure Macon’s children don’t go hungry the rest of the summer.

Starting Monday, the Mentors Project of Bibb County aims to distribute meals to feed 500 children each week.

Executive director June O’Neal says the organization is committed. “If you need food, call me,” she said.

O’Neal is urging the community to donate essential food items, including crackers, bread, peanut butter and jelly.

“You can make a difference in the life of a child by volunteering to be a mentor or by donating food for the summer because we don’t want any children in our community to be hungry this summer,” she said.

Donations have already been made to the Booker T Community Center, one of several facilities across Macon-Bibb County that will receive meals every week.

“These meals can make the difference between whether a young person comes to the center to get the services they need or not,” Andrea Cooke, the Development Director with the Macon Mental Health Matters, said. “People don’t quite understand how significant food insecurity is, especially for populations in Macon.”

The Mentors Project of Bibb County will also deliver meals door-to-door for those unable to access the distribution sites. The program has been running for five years.

To make a donation, you can drop off food items at 484 Mulberry Street or by calling (478) 765-8623.

Meals will be provided at locations across Macon-Bibb County, including Campus Clubs, Booker T. Washington Community Center and Smith Street Church.