Healthy Lincoln County (HLC) has launched a community‑wide fundraising campaign to ensure that children across Lincoln County and local communities continue to receive free, nutritious meals during the summer months. The goal is to raise $75,000, with at least $50,000 needed by June when meal service begins.

Community members are invited to donate, become a sponsor, or find other ways to support the campaign by visiting: www.healthylincolncounty.org/summermeals 

This year’s fundraising effort is especially critical. Recent federal eligibility changes have reduced the number of meal sites where HLC can receive full reimbursement, even though families across the region continue to rely on the Summer Meals program. While federal funding helps, it does not cover the full cost of running the program, including staff time, fuel, food‑safe supplies, equipment, and volunteer coordination. Community support fills these gaps, so HLC can continue meeting local needs, regardless of shifting federal rules. 

“Every summer, thousands of free meals make their way into the hands of kids who count on them,” said Katie MacDonald, director of Healthy Lincoln County. “We’re committed to keeping this support steady for local families. This fundraiser gives our community the chance to come together and make sure we can continue meeting the need.”

Between 2019 and 2025, HLC served an average of more than 20,000 meals each summer, with some years surpassing 30,000. Even with reduced federal eligibility in 2025, the program still delivered roughly 14,000 meals to children across the region. All donations to this campaign stay local and directly support the preparation, transportation, and safe delivery of meals. 

Community members, businesses, and organizations are invited to support the campaign in a variety of ways, including one-time or monthly donations, sponsorships, matching gift challenges, workplace fundraisers, donation jars, and community outreach. HLC also welcomes support from civic groups, faith communities, and local organizations that want to help share information or raise awareness. Businesses interested in sponsoring the campaign can receive recognition for their support. 

“When we invest in this work together, we make sure kids in our communities have what they need to grow and thrive,” MacDonald said. “Every contribution, large or small, moves us closer to a healthy and supported summer for local families.”

Healthy Lincoln County will share an end‑of‑season update with the community, highlighting fundraising progress and the impact of summer meals for local children and families.

Learn more at healthylincolncounty.org.