Aurora's Wesley UMC to offer free summer meals, crafts for kids
Wesley United Methodist Church in Aurora will offer kids free lunches with games, art projects and a book nook at a nearby city park.
Michelle Curiel, Wesley director of children and family discipleship, made the announcement.
She said the second annual outdoor series will be held at the Fox Valley Park District's Blackhawk Park, a church neighbor at Galena Boulevard and Blackhawk Street in Aurora.
Children in first through sixth grades are invited. Admission is free.
Hours and dates are 12:45 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays from June 7 to June 23 and Thursdays only from June 30 to Aug 11.
From 1 to 2 p.m., Geneva-based Northern Illinois Food Bank's Meals on the Move, a food truck, will deliver separate-menu box lunches daily.
Meals on the Move distributes free breakfasts and lunches to about 200 children Monday through Friday, from June 1 to Aug. 6, at six Aurora parks.
The outreach is part of the USDA's Summer Food Service Program.
Last year, typical lunches included grilled chicken salad or hummus dippers.
Curiel said, "Since COVID-19 protocols are relaxed from last year, we will offer in-person activities at the park. We will provide different group hands-on activities each day. Examples are painting a giant coloring page, bubble activities, lawn games, chalk art and more.
"Although the main activity will change daily, reading and coloring areas will be offered all days," Curiel said.
She added that registrations will be accepted at the park for an upcoming Arts Camp from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, June 20-23, at the church, 14 N. May St. in Aurora.
In partnership with Simply Destinee, an Aurora youth dance center, the camp includes dance, music, painting, cooking classes and dinner.
Youth ages 4-12 are invited. Admission is free.
Call (630) 229-0231 or email michellecuriel@gmail.com for more information.