Over the course of the summer, the Kenai Peninsula Food Bank will be presenting its Food For Thought series to help engage residents in learning more about food and nutrition.

The short lectures last around 30 to 45 minutes, Greg Meyer, food bank executive director, said. The series also includes a free dinner in the bank’s Fireweed Diner.

The series will cover topics related to food, like helping attendees decipher food labels, how to use beans and lentils for tasty meals or finding nutritious foods to give picky eaters.

Meyer said the lecture series’ goal is to bring awareness about healthier, local foods, and to help people use the commodities they have at home or at the food bank.

“We’re trying to help people stretch their dollar, use local foods in their gardens or from farmers markets to eat a little bit healthier,” Meyer said.

The series takes place 5 to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays, in conjunction with the Farmers Fresh Market, which is in the food bank parking lot from 3 to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays.

Meyer said they planned it this way so locals could visit the farmers market and pick up healthy, local fruits and vegetables and apply what they learn in the Food For Thought classes to make healthier, delicious meals.

The classes are taught by different members in the community, covering a wide range of topics all related to food. Meyer said the food bank plans to also bring in local chefs to offer cooking demonstrations.

The food bank started the series in April, and Meyer said they decided to bring the series back until Sept. 10.

Tonight, the series is hosting a class taught by dietetic intern Shelby Dykstra called “Bring the kids,” and is focused on all things child nutrition. Meyer said the class will feature interactive games. The dinner will be mini pizzas.

The Food For Thought series is 5 to 6 p.m., every Tuesday until Sept. 10.