The start of summer vacation means many children will go without the regular meals they received at school. To fight summertime hunger, Sweetbay stores in Lee and Collier counties will collect jars of peanut butter and jelly until June 10 to feed children in need.

The number of jars donated at any Sweetbay will be matched by Sweetbay and delivered to the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida, which serves summer children’s programs, social service organizations and homeless shelters.

The Education Foundations of Lee and Collier counties are assisting in the effort by spreading the word to supporters and donors.

“The need for nutritious, child-friendly food is at an all-time high in our community,” Joyce Jacobs, assistant director of the Harry Chapin Food Bank, said. “There is an increased need during the summer when kids are out of school and shelters like ours take on an even greater role.”

In Collier, 62 percent of public school students receive free and reduced lunch during the school year. However, there is no way of knowing whether all of those students get the assistance they need from June through August.

In Lee, more than 50,000 students receive either free or reduced lunch during the semester. Far too often, the only food those kids eat is what they get at school.

“Peanut butter and jelly is a staple for kids,” Jacob said. “We’re thrilled to partner with Sweetbay on this important campaign to make sure no child goes hungry this summer.”

To contribute in Lehigh Acres, stop by the Sweetbay at 61 Bell Blvd. and donate jars of peanut butter and jelly in the boxes located at the front of the store.