LAS VEGAS -- Despite food available for free to children in the Las Vegas valley, many are going hungry because their parents aren't taking advantage of the programs.
Many children who receive free and reduced meals during the school year aren't participating during the summer.
For Rodjae Jones, the words "hunger" and "murder" are common words in his vocabulary.
"My tummy really hurt a lot," the 10-year-old said. "My throat was getting really sore."
Rodjae not only has to deal with an empty stomach, but also his father's slaying.
"My dad is passed away right now," he said. "He was walking to a barber shop and there was a drive-by."
But Rodjae, who now spends much of his time at the YMCA, said this summer he won't be going hungry.
During the school year, more than half of Clark County's students are eligible for free or reduced fare meals, according to the Clark County School District. But less than a third eligible for free or reduced meals participate during the summer, according to Three Square, a nonprofit food bank.
Children can receive meals at 37 food distribution centers in the county, although some said there should be at least 200 locations.
"If a site is more than a block away from home, in the heat, the kids may not want to walk," said Karen Vogel, a food distribution volunteer.
Volunteers are seeking churches and non-profit organizations to open their space to help feed children who may not otherwise eat.
For churches and non-profits that want to volunteer, call the Nevada Department of Education at 702-486-6472.
