The cafeteria doors have shut for the summer at most schools in Jackson County.

While that could mean empty bellies for some pupils who rely on free and reduced school meals, eight schools and four affordable-housing developments will try to fill the gap in services through the Summer Food Service Program.

The federally funded program provides breakfast and lunch to any children ages 1 to 18 at no charge, regardless of their families' incomes. Even daycare groups are welcome.

The programs target low-income neighborhoods in Jackson County, where more than 13 percent of the population lives below the poverty line, a higher percentage than the state average.

"There is definitely a need," said Jeff Ashmun, senior general manager for Sodexho, which provides food services in the Medford and Phoenix-Talent school district. " A certain number of kids, if we don't feed them, might not get fed."

A new program will open Monday at Patrick Elementary in Gold Hill.

Two other programs previously available at Jefferson and Wilson elementary schools have closed.

"Without any kind of activity at those schools, it's not enough of a destination to bring people out to eat, although there are high poverty kids going to Jefferson," Ashmun said.

Programs will be offered at Oak Grove Elementary, Roosevelt Elementary, Washington Elementary, Phoenix Elementary, Talent Elementary, Howard Elementary and Jackson Elementary. Barnett Townhomes, Glenridge Terrace, Lilac Meadow and Anderson Vista also will offer programs.

Most of the schools, except Howard and Roosevelt, hold the programs in association with summer activities offered by groups such as Kids Unlimited and the Boys and Girls Club.

"The ones just open for food don't do as well when they don't have activities," Ashmun said.

Federal regulations require the programs to serve one entree, a side dish and milk. However, many of the sites offer more than one choice of entree and salad bars. The Medford and Phoenix-Talent school districts even offer vegetarian options.

About 76,600 meals were served through the program in 2005, and program organizers would like to see participation increase this year.

"Kids do better when they are well fed," Ashmun said. "They are less likely to do things detrimental to their future. We have higher nutritional standards than your local convenience store."

Reach reporter Paris Achen by calling 541-776-4459 or pachen@mailtribune.com.