Fulton County, Kentucky population is 6,192 with 21% age 18 years or younger. According to the 2017 Kentucky Kids Count, 22.4% of those children live in food insecure households. A study by Feeding America shows that there is a link between nutrition and cognitive development, providing evidence that the brain's ability to develop can be negatively impacted when adequate nutrition is not available. A child not getting enough to eat on a regular basis can delay brain development and the child's ability to learn. When school is not is session, food insecure families have challenges to provide adequate nutrition for their children. 

In 2011, 87.8% of children in Fulton County, Kentucky were eligible for free and reduced school meals.  The goal was to increase the number of children, under the age of 19, who received a Summer Food Service meal on weekdays when school was not in session.  

Extension partnered with the Fulton County and Fulton Independent School Districts, the Purchase Area Health Department, Delta Corporation, and Housing Authority to access $69,000 from the Rural Child Poverty Nutrition Fund of the United State Department of Agriculture. The funds were to be used to improve the Summer Food Service Program over a 3 year period (2015 to 2018). 

The Fiscal Court leased a used van to the partnership for $1 per year. The van was refurbished to safely transport meals to designated locations throughout the county. A driver has been employed who moved the meals from the schools where they were prepared to feeding sites. <photo of van>

Feeding sites were established at schools, Housing Authority locations, food pantries, and First United Methodist Church. Each location planned activities for the children to engage in before or after their meal. Activities included physical activity, games, gardening, and educational programs related to nutrition.

An agreement was established with the Transit Authority to provide free transportation for children to four locations in the county. 

Each year, a kick-off event was conducted to inform children and parents about the Summer Food Service Program, locations, time and accessibility. Community organizations had exhibits with information about services that they provide. West Kentucky Community and Technical School recruited parents for job training services. The Red Cross, insurance companies, and health care provider shared information and conducted screening. The local radio station and inflatable play equipment provided entertainment. Meals were provided for all participants. 

Participation was encouraged through social media; advertisements on local radio, transit buses, and local newspaper, and flyers distributed by schools and posted throughout the county. 

During the past three years, 6372 meals have been served to children in Fulton County. In just 2018, 941 free rides were given by Fulton County Transit. Many in county collaborations and partnerships were made because of the Summer Feeding Program.