Essex Westford School District Distributes 500,000th free school meal and counting since March

Burlington, Virginia (WCAX)-Food security is still a major issue nationwide, and the local school district is providing students with free meals in response to this problem. The Essex Westford School District reached a milestone last Friday. It has provided 500,000 school meals for free since March. On Friday they also distributed nearly 2,000 meals to children 18 and under. , They do it every week.

"My kids love food, so it's helpful to the community and it's also helpful to us, which is great," said Danette Fleishman, who picks up food for the children.

One of the largest school districts in Vermont has now handed over 500,000 meals to the children to ensure they can eat at the table.

The area also encourages anyone, whether they need it or not, to come out and collect meals on weekends.

"You are not dining from people who actually need to promote and help fund the program. It is based on participation, so for people who really need us, the more people come, the more we can become. powerful."

Weekend meal packs provide four meals on Saturday and Sunday. This weekend’s menu includes bagels, French toast, grilled chicken Alfredo and homemade pizza sets.

You don't need to register anything, and families can eat without living in the school district. Play with them some nights.

Craig Davis of Essex said: "We have been able to take advantage of existing food challenges and create our own food. We have vegetarians at home, so make sure we get The fruits and vegetables are really helpful." Junction.

According to data from Dot's Place, a local food pantry in Essex, from 2019 to 2020, the demand for food and beverage in the area has almost doubled.

Faye said: "There are too many places where people are unemployed, and food insecurity is happening now."

According to the state, there are nearly 250 open dining venues around the state that can help keep food on the table during the pandemic. You can find the nearest location

Or call 2-1-1.