A free lunch program in the city of Middletown is also giving local kids a chance to be creative.

"These stripes are gonna be like the sun," said Edward Delarosa, as he decorates a tiny flower pot with paint in Bennett Hill Park.

It’s also a chance to continue to do the arts and crafts he normally does in school during summer.

"This feels like I was school, but it's just in the summer," said Delarosa.

It's his first time at the craft wagon and playgrounds summer lunch program organized by the City of Middletown’s Parks and Recreation Department. Monday through Friday, children 18 and younger can come to one of 10 Middletown parks to pick up a free lunch and participate in arts and crafts activities. Funding for the program is provided by the summer feeding grant given to the Enlarged City School District of Middletown.

"It's just an opportunity for kids to get out and play just be outside and socialize," said Christine Brinckerhoff, the city of Middletown superintendent of recreation.

The craft wagon and free lunch distribution is supervised by Middletown High School student counselors and school district staff.

"I go from park to park on a daily basis with the craft wagon," said craft wagon representative Victoria Lang. "I engage with the kids in the parks doing different crafts, lanyards … this week, we have our beach theme."

It’s Stephanie Delarosa’s first time here, too.

"I get to paint more because I really like drawing and making stuff," Stephanie said.

To find out where your child can pick up their free lunch or follow the schedule of the craft wagon or book mobile, you can follow the Middletown Parks and Recreation Department on social media or call them at (845) 346-4180.