When a child walks into Wrightsville Presbyterian Church, not only can she pick up a free lunch, but she can also find fun and fellowship.

The church, located at 205 N. Second St., offers the Summer Food Service Program weekdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program is coordinated through Hands Across the Street at Columbia Presbyterian Church.

"Everything is set up to be grab-and-go, but they are welcome to stay and eat here. We provide plenty of space for them," said pastor Jesse North. "When it's really hot out, we provide an opportunity for the kids to come in off the streets and into the air conditioning, have lunch and hang out."

Ilean Ball, who oversees the program with Rick Schmidt, noted that anywhere from 60 to 90 children could be served on a typical day. This year, in addition to the food, participants are enjoying spending time with Stephen Wisler, an Elizabethtown College student who is interning with the program.

"I love kids. This is the best job I've ever had," stated Wisler, who grew up in Wrightsville Presbyterian. "I feel like I'm making a difference, and I'm serving kids who really need this."

Although Wisler is only at the program on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, he's making an impact, said Ball, adding, "After his first day here, the kids came in the next day asking for Stephen. He's really reaching every kid on their level."

Wisler might spend time playing foosball with the children, building with Legos or even just doodling. "I love to draw pictures with the kids, and they love it," he said. "I can cater to their interests. ... I try to do things that engage their fine motor skills. I also try to offer activities that are diversified to keep their attention and get their brains going."

North said the food program offers a way for the church to connect with its community. "We think the kingdom of God is about serving other people," he remarked. "The church ought to be a place that, if it closed today, people would realize something is missing. We should be an integral part of the community. This program is a way we can meet a need."

The program will run through August, until school starts again, and it's open to any school-age children in the community.

"To a kid who is unsure about coming through the doors, I would say that this is a great place for anyone looking to have fun in an uplifting, positive environment," Wisler stated. "We guarantee you'll be walking away with a full belly and a smile."

The entrance to the Summer Food Service Program is located at the rear of the church, off of Centre Alley. The church holds a Sunday worship service at 10 a.m. For more information on Wrightsville Presbyterian Church, visit http://www.wpcpa.org.