While the Coronavirus has rocked the world as we know it, creating upheaval, uncertainty and devastation, one positive outcome of this pandemic has been that people have come to see school nutrition professionals as the essential workers they are. With the sudden and unexpected closure of schools across the country, food service staff quickly realized the need to continue providing meals to hungry students who depend on them.
School nutrition programs have faced many challenges as they have had to change their entire food service model to deliver meals to students when schools are closed, food supplies are uncertain, and while practicing social distancing. They have demonstrated the creativity and determination of true heroes and deserve all the recognition we can give them for their heroic efforts.
School Lunch Hero Day, the annual celebration to honor school nutrition staff, falls on May 1st this year. As with mothers and fathers, it seems that school lunch heroes deserve a whole lot more than one day of honor. They should be celebrated every day, especially this year. Please show your appreciation for the essential work School Lunch Heroes are doing to help the families in your community.
