Austin Public Schools will again offer free lunches for any person age 18 and under from June 9 through Aug. 29 at Sumner Elementary, Ellis Middle School and Shirley Theel Park in southwest Austin.

This is the second year the district has offered this opportunity. Although some might believe this is unnecessary and a “waste of taxpayers’ money,” there are families who may greatly benefit from the program.

Not only can some families of all nationalities, sizes and walks of life not afford to provide a healthy meal for their children, some parents work such long hours they don’t have time for regular, home-cooked meals.

Children will be served an alternative to frozen pizza and mac and cheese, while utilizing a free library program and socializing with other kids.

The district must qualify for this state program; families should take advantage of this great opportunity.