The COVID-19 pandemic has forced much quick thinking and flexibility on the part of K-12 foodservice operators. See below for more on how the U.S. Department of Agriculture and other areas of government have responded during this challenging time, and check back for updates as the FSD team continues its coverage of school meal legislation.
Photograph: Shutterstock
Photograph: Shutterstock
coronavirus
House of Representatives passes continuing resolution that includes funding to extend summer meal program waivers
The legislation will add almost $8 billion in funding for school nutrition programs.
coronavirus
USDA issues nationwide waiver for CACFP at-risk program
Schools and after-school care centers with state agency approval will now be able to serve at-risk meals and snacks regardless of location.
"At this time, we are confident we can afford to provide waiver flexibility until Dec. 31."
coronavirus
USDA extends summer meal waivers through December
The extension of the Summer Food Service Program and National School Lunch Program Seamless Summer Option will allow schools to serve meals to all students at no charge.
coronavirus
Bill introduced to provide all K-12 students with free meals this school year
The Pandemic Child Hunger Prevention Act would temporarily grant universal free meals to all students.
USDA extends child nutrition waivers through upcoming school year
Waivers on meal pattern flexibility, congregate meals, meal times, and parent and guardian meal pickup have all been extended.
"Providing school meals at no charge to all students is the safest, most effective way to serve students and combat childhood hunger during the pandemic."
coronavirus
USDA extends child nutrition area eligibility waiver
The waiver, which allows schools across the country to continue serving free meals, has been extended through the summer.
coronavirus
School Nutrition Association calls for COVID-19 waivers extension and universal free meals
In a letter to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, the SNA said these factors will be essential to keep school foodservice operations functioning in the fall.
coronavirus
USDA extends school nutrition waivers through summer
The noncongregate feeding waiver, meal times waiver and parent pickup waiver have all been extended to the end of August.