A local church gave hundreds of free meals to children in Pella this summer. More than 2,200 sack lunches were served to the children of Pella during summer vacation by Second Reformed Church’s Summer Lunch Ministry.

Lori Ellingson, who organized the effort, thanks Kristi Balk of Jaarsma Bakery, which provided free bread and cookies for the lunches all summer. Ellingson told KNIA/KRLS News at the beginning of the program the church saw a need in the community, and have since helped provide and serve the meals.

“In Iowa, 40% of public school children qualify for free or reduced lunches, reflecting a big need in the summer months,” she said.

She said an average of 40 kids per day took advantage of the service.