Malden Public Schools Summer Eats Program kicks off with barbeque

The Summer Eats Program, coordinated by the Malden Public Schools Food Service Department, in collaboration with the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and Project Bread, kicked off with a free barbeque at the Courtyard of Malden High School recently, with over 250 in attendance. Mayor Gary Christenson was on hand for the event, manning the grill and helping serve hot dogs and hamburgers for the whole shift. Malden Public Schools Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Business Toni Mertz was also on hand, pointing out that the MPS Food Truck will be in use all summer at mobile locations at the city’s parks, primarily, to distribute free lunches to all who would like to take advantage of the program. Representatives of the Malden Police Department, Malden Fire Department and Cataldo ambulance were also on hand to invite children to sit inside the various vehicles and use the sirens. A free “make your own slush” truck and a popular petting zoo were also part of the big event. Free lunches begin on Wednesday. July 5 and continue weekdays during the summer. Go to maldenps.org or projectbread.org/summer eats for more information.