All youth in Ottumwa ages 1 through 18 will be eligible for free breakfast and lunch starting Tuesday, September 8. This change in the district’s food service program is the result of a recent United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Nationwide Waiver.
Currently, several schools provide all students with free meals through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). This opportunity will expand free meals to the entire community, meeting the needs of Ottumwa during this pandemic. Ottumwa Schools has chosen to provide meals under this waiver through December 31 subject to federal funding. Meals will be available in the cafeteria for our face-to-face learners and curbside grab and go for all virtual learners.
Parents with balances in their child’s school lunch account can either leave the funds in the account to be used for the second semester or request a refund.
The program also provides the opportunity for free meals to all Ottumwa area children ages 18 and under. Families wishing to participate can pick up breakfast and lunch for the following week’s school days every Friday. Pickup will be at Ottumwa High School on the Fourth St. side between 10-11 a.m. Children/youth do not need to be present to pick up meals.
“Ottumwa Schools recognizes the need for access to healthy food in our community,” said Yvonne Johnson, Director of Food and Nutrition Services. “We are excited to be making a difference in the lives of our children.”
For additional information, contact Johnson at 641-684-6979 x73101.