MCPS shared that as part of the school system’s emergency weather procedures, meals were made available to children aged 18 and under (regardless of their enrollment status in the school district) at 18 sites across the county. Parents and guardians could also pick up these meals.
A total of approximately 7,500 meals were distributed this past Tuesday and Wednesday (around 3,500 meals on January 7 followed by around 4,000 meals on January 8). Each grab-and-go meal included an entrée (grain/protein), fruit, vegetable, and milk, along with reheating instructions for families to enjoy at home. Menu items featured French toast sticks with sausage, carrots, grilled cheese, apples, roasted chickpeas, craisins, and milk.
“Despite the harsh weather conditions, our dedicated teams on the ground were real troopers,” said Elizabeth Leach, director of the Division of Food and Nutrition Services (DFNS). “The wind was whipping around, but our staff was determined to ensure our community had access to healthy meals.”
According to MCPS, Among the busiest meal distribution sites, Arcola Elementary School served over 600 meals before running out of food. While final data will be compiled once normal operations resume, DFNS estimates that each site served at least 200 meals.