Guilford County school leaders are asking federal lawmakers to continue a summer program that serves any child who needs a meal and is set to end next week.
The USDA recently granted several waiver extensions to the state for more flexibility with child nutrition programs during the pandemic, but the Summer Food Service isn't one of them.
As of September 1, parents will have to pick up meals at schools and prove their child's eligibility for free and reduced-price meals, or they'll have to pay for it.
During a Legislative Committee meeting this week, school board members say they plan to contact lawmakers on the issue.
“So then parents with access, who have the ability and transportation in a district that's over 60 percent at or below poverty level, that's going to create a significant challenge with distributing meals with having them physically come to the school,” says GCS board member Byron Gladden.
Cynthia Sevier with Guilford County Schools says state funding also dried up that enabled the district to provide buses that delivered meals in vulnerable communities. Now, they'll open more pick up sites to expand access.
“We've had sixty-something schools open, now we are going to have like 110, so we are increasing the number of schools that are open and then we will continue with some mobile sites to hit our most highly impacted areas. “
Sevier says the district has secured local funding to help continue the mobile meal delivery sites. As of now, it will be able to run through September.
For the most up-to-date information on coronavirus in North Carolina, visit our Live Updates blog here. WFDD wants to hear your stories — connect with us and let us know what you're experiencing.
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