The Jerome School District is looking to spread positive energy throughout their community by offering free pickup and delivery meals to the kids of the school. The district is entering their third week of this project, serving nearly 27,000 meals just this past week. The work has been tough but it has also been an opportunity for many.
Loads of people are curently out of work due to the pandemic and Governor Little's stay at home order. Yet the school has been able to keep on the cafeteria staff and the bus company that serves the district. Manager of North Side Bus Company Josh Crandall discussed how the district has kept business going these past weeks.
“People are continually canceling for the summer, people are very scared. Weddings that were going to be done they’re canceling. We’re having cancels here until August. So right now the only business I have is delivering the food to the kiddos.”
The loss of business has led to some drivers not being able to work. Crandall stated how he had fifty five to sixty employed and is now down to forty four.
Despite the setback, being able to delivering nearly 200 meals a day to children has managed to normalize some aspects of his work. While he misses the kids on his bus, being able to see them has made him happy.
Food Service Director for the school district, Brianna Luper said that many of the workers feel this way.
"These lunch ladies are giving all their love in to a meal and sending it to these kids who they see everyday and know almost of all them by name and I know they're just missing them like crazy".
The reception from the community has also been one of admiration. Showing that the school cares for its students has meant so much to everyone, including the children.
Luper discussed how many kids have sent drawings giving thanks for the meals and everything that the district is doing.
The delivery and pickup services operate Monday through Friday 9:30-12:30 and those feeling the need to help can donate food to the district.
