An outpouring of local support has allowed St. Mary’s County Library to provide healthy snacks to children at the Lexington Park branch throughout the summer months. The library’s Summer Snacks donation campaign raised more than $12,000 in cash contributions and collected enough donated food items to serve snacks on weekdays through August 21.
The response surpassed initial expectations and reflects the strong community ties in St. Mary’s County. Individual residents, families, businesses and organizations all contributed, turning small donations into a reliable supply that will help children who visit the library for reading, learning and summer programs.
Snacks will be available every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. at Lexington Park Library. On Wednesdays, the library will offer Lunch at the Library, featuring meals from local restaurants or food establishments during the same time slot. Because of the volume of donations received, the program has also expanded to Leonardtown Library and Charlotte Hall Library, where snacks will be provided before or after scheduled children’s programs listed on the library calendar.
Summer presents particular challenges for families whose children rely on school-based meal programs during the academic year. When classes end, consistent access to nutritious food can become more difficult. Libraries across the region have stepped in to help bridge that gap by offering welcoming spaces where children can participate in activities while receiving snacks or meals.
St. Mary’s County Library Director Michael Blackwell credited the success of the campaign to the many smaller contributions that added up over time. He noted that every box of snacks, grocery store purchase and online donation played a role in building the supply that will now serve local children for the remainder of the summer.
Lexington Park Branch Manager Amy Ford emphasized the personal impact of the effort. She said the program demonstrates how deeply the community cares for its youngest residents and ensures that children can focus on learning and play without the distraction of hunger.
The expanded reach to other branches means more children across St. Mary’s County will benefit. Snacks at Leonardtown and Charlotte Hall will be tied directly to existing children’s programming, creating additional opportunities for families to connect with library resources during the summer months.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts by St. Mary’s County Library to support families year-round. The branches regularly host programs that combine education, entertainment and community connection, and the addition of reliable snacks removes one barrier that can prevent some children from participating fully.
Community members interested in learning more about upcoming library programs or future giving opportunities can visit the St. Mary’s County Library website at stmalib.org. The calendar lists events at all branches, including those where snacks will now be available.
The success of the Summer Snacks campaign shows how collective local action can address immediate needs while strengthening community bonds. With support from residents and organizations throughout St. Mary’s County, the library system has created a practical resource that will help children stay nourished and engaged through the end of summer.
