USDA extends free meal program for students through the end of 2020

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A healthy breakfast is key to starting the school day off right, and now more students will get that and a lunch for free.

The federal program that let schools deliver free meals to students during the pandemic was just extended.

Starting Tuesday, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is offering “Meal Bundles” to families. It is part of CMS’ Eats at Home Program. Each box contains five breakfasts and five lunches.

Students can pick up those meal bundles at a pick up site or schedule them to be dropped off at their bus stop.

Now that the USDA’s program has been expanded through the end of the year, that means all students will be able to get those weekly meal bundles for free.

The meals aren’t just for CMS students. Children 18 and younger can also get the free meals. They can pick them up at the meal site or they can get bus delivery if there is a CMS student living with them.

You do have to sign up for the meals ahead of time so CMS knows how many are needed. Parents can do that online.

CMS superintendent lays out what families can expect this school year CMS superintendent lays out what families can expect this school year

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