‘We’re going to do this like superheroes.’ Idaho lunch ladies feed kids during pandemic
Finding a way to feed hundreds of kids on short notice during coronavirus concerns can require superhuman efforts. So on Thursday, Emmett School District kitchen staff decided to dress the part.
“They said, ‘We’re going to do this like superheroes,”’ said Emmett superintendent Craig Woods, whose staff wore capes to pass out food to more than 300 kids at Emmett Middle School. “Making it fun for not only our staff but the students who are coming up and receiving this food.”
The majority of students in the Emmett School District qualify for the federal free and reduced lunch program, according to spokeswoman Vickie Holbrook. Like many other Idaho school districts, Emmett scrambled to find a way to continue helping suddenly home-bound kids who get their main meals at school.
As concerns over the spread of coronavirus in Idaho grows, school district officials are making plans to extend the length of their food distribution program. They’re even providing meals through spring break, too, since many parents may be struggling after layoffs or reduced hours.
“Everything worked well and our parents were so happy,” said Tyree White, the district’s child nutrition director. “There were a lot of smiles, kids were happy with the chocolate milk and parents were thrilled we were there as a resource for them.”
Any kids ages 1-18 can pick up free meals weekdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Emmett Middle School. Kids do not need to be a student in the Emmett School District, but the child must be present to receive a meal.
This story was originally published March 20, 2020 at 7:48 AM.
