cnelson@thealpenanews.com
ALPENA — Students will continue to receive free school meals through the end of the school year.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently extended waivers that allow schools to continue to provide meals at no cost to all children through June 30. The waivers also allow parents or guardians to pick-up meals for their children.
The USDA had previously extended free meals through December 31, based on funding available at that time.
Alpena Public Schools Superintendent David Rabbideau said the decision is good news for the district’s students and families.
“We know that students learn better when they are fed, and it is wonderful that the USDA has committed to doing what it can to make sure all students are fed on a regular basis,” Rabbideau said. “Parents should not have to worry about having access to or being able to afford healthy meals for their children. This decision takes that worry off of parents and students and that is a tremendous benefit”