Last March, when coronavirus forced schools to shut down or move online, thousands of California schools and community-based organizations stepped up to serve the nutritional needs of students by setting up free grab-and-go meal sites. Now, as we head into the fall, they may lose their ability to provide universally free meals to all children in their communities, unless the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) approves several critical child nutrition waivers.
Thanks to advocacy from schools and community partners, USDA recently extended several child nutrition waivers through next school year. Unfortunately, several others were denied, including waivers that would enable schools and afterschool programs to provide free meals and snacks at a level that meets the community's needs through next school year.
Please consider joining CFPA, state agencies and organizations across the U.S. in demanding that USDA grant these critical waivers.
Sign on using the above form by Friday (7/24) or email melissa@cfpa.net.