PORTLAND (WGME) — Kids who get free or reduced school lunch often have to go hungry in the summer because school is out.

But several local groups are coming together to make sure children in Maine have enough to eat year round.

Portland Public Schools, the Maine Hunger Initiative and the United Way’s “Starting Strong” program hosted a picnic at Deering Oaks Park Wednesday.

The program manager for Maine Hunger Initiative says in the past five years programs and events like this have helped feed 500 children.

“Hunger elevates for children in the summertime when they’re out of school, when they don’t have access to the free breakfast and lunch that they get. That’s why the summer meals program is so important,” Michelle Lamm, Maine Hunger Initiative, said.

For more information on summer meal sites and times, please CLICK HERE.