As the school semester winds to a close and we all get ready for a winter break, it’s heartwarming to read about the many school programs throughout the country that continue to find ways to feed hungry kids during snow days and school breaks.

• In Bristol, Virginia, where schools had been closed for snow days in the past couple of weeks, teachers made sure students didn’t go hungry by delivering meals to them. Local businesses, churches and other organizations donated food as well. It was a great example of a community coming together to help these children, where 75% receive free or reduced-price lunch.
• Last week, the Baltimore Sun reported that Howard County schools in Maryland are offering free lunches during the winter break on December 27 and 28. The school system is working with the county’s Department of Community Resources, the Howard County Library System and the Community Action Council of Howard County to provide the free meals, which will be prepared at Oakland Hills High School. Of the school system’s 58,000 student population, 22.5% of students are enrolled in in the free and reduced meals program.
• Fayetteville Public Schools in Arkansas will be offering Free school breakfast and lunch programs during the winter break. They estimate to feed nearly 200 children breakfast and lunch each day during the service dates of December 20, 21, 27 and 28, as well as January 2, 3, and 4. The meals will be served at the local Boys & Girls Clubs.

These are just a few of the many school programs across the country that are working together with their communities to feed hungry children, regardless of the school calendar. Doesn’t it make you proud to be in school foodservice? Happy Holidays!