Community Summer Lunch Program Returns for 2026

The Paris and Holliday communities have generously supported a summer lunch program for school-aged children for many years. For families who rely on school meal programs during the academic year, these resources can help ensure children continue to receive nutritious meals throughout the summer months. 
Last year, the program assisted families with more than 75 children, and plans are underway to continue that support this summer. Lunch items will once again be provided to students whose families indicate they would like to participate. 
Thanks to the generosity of donors and volunteers, the program has successfully provided meals throughout previous summers. This year, organizers plan to distribute weekday lunches for ten weeks, beginning the first week of June. The final pickup date will be scheduled shortly before the start of the new school year in August. 
Volunteers gather each Wednesday afternoon in the fellowship hall of First Baptist Church to pack lunch boxes, and additional helping hands are always welcome. 
While the program has no official sponsor, it is made possible through donations from individuals, churches, civic organizations, and local businesses. As in years past, this effort depends on the support of the entire community. 
This year, donations will have an even greater impact through a matching grant opportunity provided by the Holliday Masonic Lodge. A significant portion of contributions will be tripled through this program, helping to extend assistance to even more children and families. 
Financial donations may be mailed to: 
First Baptist Church 
P.O. Box 89 
Paris, MO 65275 
Please label all donations "Summer Lunches." 
For additional information, contact Brenda Ensor at bensor60@gmail.com.