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One million meals distributed to families since schools closed in March

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One million meals distributed to families since schools closed in March
Mary Rochelle

En Español

Boulder Valley School District’s food distribution program reaches a milestone number in COVID-19 response efforts

Boulder Valley School District announces that its millionth meal will be served through its food distribution program today. Since in-person schools closed in March due to COVID-19, BVSD’s food distribution program has provided food to families on a weekly basis. 

“Hunger in Colorado is spiraling out of control right now,” says Ann Cooper, Director of Food Services at Boulder Valley School District. “This program has had steady demand all year, but we’ve seen the number of families who participate more than double in the past month. I can’t give enough credit to our employees who have been on the frontlines since shutdowns began, making sure that our students remain well-fed.”

While in-person schools are closed, the Food Services department continues to serve students to ensure they have access to nutritious meals during the current public health crisis. While school meal participation is traditionally highest by students who qualify for free or reduced meals, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the economic situations for many families who may have never before needed additional food assistance. In a recent survey completed by the district, 52 percent of the food distribution program participants said they’ve had their work hours cut since COVID-19 started, 30 percent have lost their job and 20 percent have had COVID-related health issues. 

Reaching the one million meals benchmark has been a collaborative effort across the school district’s departments, local businesses Boulder Organic and Aurora Organic Dairy, community partners including Impact on Education, Naturally Boulder and Conscious Alliance, and the local food bank, Community Food Share. 

“Community Food Share congratulates BVSD on reaching this impressive milestone,” says Kim Da Silva, Executive Director, Community Food Share. “Our longstanding partnership has grown immensely this year to meet the increased needs of our community. Our foodbank is proud to provide fresh produce, milk, meat, and pantry staples to the School Food Project, supporting local kids and their families during school closures and at-home learning.” 

Boulder Valley School District’s food distribution is available to any family with a child 18 and under. The distribution is contactless drive-through pick up and families receive at least 10 - 14 meals for every child in their household. Food includes a mix of fresh ingredients and prepared foods, including many locally-sourced fruits and vegetables. Distribution takes place every Monday from 10:30-1:30 at seven different school locations and then again from 4-6 PM at one district administration location. More information, including distribution location addresses, are available here. 

 

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