OLSD updates food service program

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The Olentangy Local School District has announced changes to its meal service program, which has continued to provide meals to the community despite schools being closed indefinitely.

Beginning on Monday, March 23, the district will distribute meals only on Mondays and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Previously, the district was offering meal service Monday through Friday. The food service department will also reduce how many sites are offering the meal service.

Now, only six sites will offer the service rather than the previous seven sites. Glen Oak Elementary, Heritage Elementary, Liberty High School, Oak Creek Elementary, Olentangy Meadows Elementary, and Orange High School will continue to offer the meal service. Tyler Run Elementary was removed from the list.

Two lunches and two breakfasts will be offered on Mondays, and three lunches and breakfasts will be offered on Wednesdays. Meals are free of charge.

All meals are prepackaged, and students, parents, or guardians can pick them up at the main entrance of each site location; meals cannot be consumed on-site in order to prevent exposure. Those who are picking up the meals can walk to pick up their meals, or there is also a drive-thru option. If driving, meals will be brought directly to the vehicle.

A student must be present to receive a meal, and student names will need to be provided, although student identification isn’t necessary to receive the meal. No-contact delivery will be made available for families that are ill or are unable to pick up meals. To arrange for delivery service, families should call 740-657-5057. If a student requires dietary accommodations, families can also call the number to make arrangements at least 24 hours before pickup.

According to the OLSD website, the changes were made to minimize how many times a week a family has to come and get meals, which will also minimize the potential for contact.

While the district has received many offers for help in regard to the meal service program, OLSD has stated it is not permitted to accept donated food or allow volunteers to deliver food.

“We are lucky to live in a community that is eager to help our students,” the OLSD website states. “While we are grateful for offers to deliver food and make food donations, district staff is available to make deliveries, and USDA guidelines forbid us from using donated food for district-prepared and distributed meals. If you would like to help, please contact Delaware People In Need or United Way of Delaware County.”

For any questions, contact the OLSD Food Service Department at [email protected].

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By Dillon Davis

[email protected]

Reach Dillon Davis at 740-413-0904. Follow him on Twitter @DillonDavis56.

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