Feeding the Future: How a Community Came Together to Nourish Oroville's Children

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Oroville branch of the Butte County Library found an innovative solution to ensure that local children had access to free summer meals, despite facing a potential shortage of food supplies. Through the tireless efforts of dedicated individuals and the generosity of local businesses, this vital program was able to continue, providing nourishment and a sense of belonging to the young residents of Oroville.

Nourishing Minds and Bodies: Oroville's Free Summer Lunch Program

Facing a Potential Shortfall

When Misty Wright, the interim director of the Butte County Library, learned that the Butte County Office of Education would be unable to supply food for the free summer lunch program at the Oroville branch, she knew immediate action was needed. The program, which had been operating for at least eight years, was a lifeline for many families in the community, providing meals to 20 to 25 children per day during the summer months.

Reaching Out for Help

Recognizing the importance of the program, Wright reached out to Shawn Webber, a city councilor, seeking assistance. "We were struggling to find another source for food," Wright explained. "I reached out to Shawn because of his vast network in the community to see if he could help us out."

A Community Rallies

Webber sprang into action, making calls to various local organizations and businesses. To his delight, everyone he contacted, including Walmart, Pacific Coast Producers, the Butte County Sheriff's Office, Oroville Police Department, Jordan Crossing, and the Oroville Resource Center and Rescue Mission, agreed to donate food and help prepare the meals for the summer lunch program.

The Power of Community

Reflecting on the outpouring of support, Webber said, "What it really says to me is it takes a village — and that's what happened. A village member was in need, and when I reached to out to people to let them know, they stepped up. Without everyone jumping in this would not have happened. It takes all of us working together as a community for the community."

Feeding Hungry Minds and Bodies

On the first day of the program, Wright and Kimberlee Wheeler, the children's librarian, set up the tables in the Oroville library meeting room, arranging the donated sandwiches, chips, granola bars, fruit cups, and juice boxes. "This program is near and dear to my heart," said Wheeler. "When you see the kids come in and enjoy a meal, you know they are going to have a better day."

A Lifeline for Families in Need

Wright emphasized the importance of the free summer lunch program, especially in Oroville, where there is a significant issue of food scarcity. "During the school year, the kids get meals at school, but in the summer time they depend on this program," she said. "In previous summers we've served lunches to 20 to 25 children a day during the week."

Building Community Connections

The program not only provides nourishment but also fosters a sense of community. "Last summer was our best summer so far," said Wright. "We had a lot of parents who got to know one another through the program and set up different activities, like going to the park, together for playtime."

A Bright Future Ahead

Despite the initial uncertainty about the program's continuation, the first day saw a steady trickle of families with children taking advantage of the free lunch and air conditioning. Wright expects the numbers to grow as word spreads that the program is up and running. In addition to the meals, the children can also participate in various reading and craft activities, further enriching their summer experience.