As we all take precaution to protect ourselves and others from the spread of coronavirus, we can’t forget hungry kids. Nearly 22 million low-income kids from communities across the country rely on the free and reduced-price meals they receive at school. For many, these meals may be the only nutritious food that they’ll receive on a given day. With schools either closing or weighing the option to do so in districts nationwide, children may be left without that critical lifeline to healthy meals.
For parents, educators or community leaders, here are some resources for helping ensure kids get the food they need during the coronavirus outbreak.
Text ‘FOOD’ to 877-877 to Find Food Distribution Sites While Georgia Schools Are Closed
With schools closed statewide due to COVID-19, No Kid Hungry is encouraging families to text FOOD or COMIDA to 877-877 to find free food distribution sites organized by school districts in their communities.
All of Georgia’s public schools are closed in response to the coronavirus, impacting more than 1.7 million students across the state. Nearly 900,000 kids in Georgia rely on the free and reduced-price meals they receive at school.
School districts, food banks and other community partners across the state have stepped up to make sure kids continue to get the nutrition they need during this crisis, finding new, innovative ways to safely provide meals. They’re offering a variety of food distribution models to help safely connect students with meals, including “Grab and Go” service at schools and food delivery along bus routes.
No Kid Hungry organizes the texting line and continues to update the service with new information. Families are also encouraged to visit their school district’s website and social media accounts for meal distribution details.
If you are a community leader or a sponsor, click here to learn how to add your site information to the texting service.
Below is some information on program options and waivers to support meal service during school closures related to the coronavirus:
Together, we can make sure no child has to face a decision between staying healthy or staying nourished.