Nearly $509,000 in grants were awarded to 17 Michigan schools and school-districts to support meal programs, including Wayne-Westland Community Schools.

The grants are part of continued efforts to ensure all children in Michigan have sufficient access to healthy foods. The pandemic has increased food insecurity and even more students are reliant on meals provided at schools. The ‘No Kid Hungry’ organization aims to provide school breakfasts, after-school meals as well as meals throughout the summer vacation.

“School meals are available to students across Michigan no matter if they are learning remotely or participating in a hybrid model. These grants will help ensure students in Michigan continue to get the nutrition they need to learn during this difficult time,” said Allison Dela Cuesta, field manager for the No Kid Hungry campaign.

“We at No Kid Hungry are in awe of the phenomenal work of school nutrition staff. They have been at the front lines of this pandemic, working creatively and diligently to reach all of their students by offering curb-side pickup meals, delivering meals to bus stops or community centers, collaborating with community groups to offer additional family food boxes, and more.”

In the wake of the coronavirus, millions of children in the United States are facing poverty and hunger. Traditionally, many kids have relied on the meals they get at school each day. But even as school staff and community leaders work to feed students while many school buildings are closed, children are missing the meals they need.

There are many ways to get involved and support this program. Please see the Ways You Can Help page on their website.