Due to Covid-19, many things in 2020 have been done differently including operating procedures for schools.

Most schools are currently doing distance learning, including all schools in Santa Clarita. Other than having to stare at a screen all day, a lot of students have struggled with not being able to go back to school for a different reason–getting their food for the day.

Luckily, some schools here in SCV have been able to find a way so that families can still get their daily meals. The Santa Clarita Food Services Agency or the School Day Cafe is set to give children free and nutritious meals throughout designated locations.

Many schools including Leona Cox Elementary, Cedarcreek Elementary, Newhall Elementary and many more locations all across the valley are all open for meal pick-ups on specific days and times. This “School Day Cafe” program is open to all families who have children under the age of 18 and is quick, simple, convenient, and completely free.

The schools pre-makes meals that are the same for everyone who gets them that day. The meals vary on different days and locations, but usually have one main meal item, some sort of vegetable or fruit, juice and/or milk, and some little snacks such as teddy crackers. These meals are also a good option for people with allergies; many items are peanut, and treenut free as well as gluten free (but that is not always a guarantee).

The way the drive thru works can vary depending on which location you go to. One example would be Leona Cox Elementary School. At this specific location you have to have at least one child who attends this school present in order to receive food. As you are approaching the front of the pick up line you tell the cafeteria staff or school employee, the number of meals you will need, and they will pass it to you while you stay in the car. At all locations families are required to wear a mask while picking up their food.

This program is open to all families with children who are 18 years and younger and they do not have to be enrolled students. The serving hours for this program are from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. every Monday through Friday, except holidays.

This program is not just for families qualifying for the free and reduced food program, anyone can try this program if they would like to. In the end, School Day Cafe is a great opportunity for anyone to drive up and get free meals for their children because no one should have to learn on an empty stomach.

If you would like more information on which locations you can pick up food click the link below:
https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1AAEFTkn_GIDyaWmOwaBDvuW__E2nap4U&ll=34.44284308471628%2C-118.52901035000002&z=12

For more information on the School Day Cafe you can visit their website:
https://www.schooldaycafe.org/

If you would like to know more about what the menu will look like for today click on the link:
https://schoolnutritionandfitness.com/mobile/#/school/1002091935515163/1714/10639
Please note that this last link will take you to the Sulphur Springs School District menu, but you can change that by clicking the three lines in the top left corner and scrolling down to “Find Your School”.