They get a free lunch, exercise, and have fun.

With perks like that, it's no wonder why the summer lunch program at the South Ward playground in Tamaqua has proved so successful over the years.The free summer lunch program is for all local children up to and including the age of 18, according to Melissa Mehallic, a member of the South Ward Playground Association.Mehallic said the Mahanoy Area School District provides lunch for the children, with funding provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.Along with the healthy lunch, Mehallic said the children are offered a variety of summer activities to partake in.Count Aiden Ortiz of Tamaqua among the many children who look forward to the program."It's fun for people to play," said Aiden, 9. "I like to play basketball, to run to get exercise, and the free lunch."Isidro Olayo, 11, of Tamaqua, agreed."It has lots of memories," Isidro said. "I like the free food, to play, friends, and to have fun."Lorena Olayo, 9, of Tamaqua, added, "For me, it's to stay healthy."Daisy Mae Valentine, 20, of Tamaqua, said she's impressed with the program."I think it's a very outstanding program," Valentine said. "The kids love it, and it's a positive atmosphere."Sade Ortiz, 19, of Tamaqua, echoed Valentine's sentiment."My nephew comes up, he has fun, he plays," Ortiz said. "It's a very positive environment, and it teaches kids to be more interactive with kids so that when they get to high school, they don't turn into bullies."