Free summer lunch program returns for kids and teens

A free summer lunch program for Merrill-area children and teens will return this year, running from June 8 through Aug. 28, 2026.
Five local churches — Christ United Methodist Church, St. Stephens UCC, Our Saviour’s Lutheran, Trinity Lutheran, and St. John Lutheran — along with the Merrill Community Food Pantry are partnering to provide weekday lunches to children and teens who lose access to school meals during summer break.
Meal pickup will be available Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot of Christ UMC, located on Third Street near the intersection of Mill Street. All meals are ready to eat and are intended to be taken home. No on-site dining is available. Each of the five participating churches is responsible for providing meals on its assigned day of the week.
The Merrill Community Food Pantry will again contribute daily items such as snacks and fruit cups while supplies last. Volunteers from Associated Bank and other community members assist with packing bags throughout the summer.
No registration is required. Children and teens or parents simply need to show up during pickup hours. Beverages will not be included in lunch bags this summer.