How COVID-19 is affecting student food access

Disclaimer: Proper PPE regulations have evolved over time. All footage reflects proper adherence to PPE guidelines as they existed at the time of filming.

"We are operating the National School Lunch and Breakfast program in the State of South Carolina, which is a program administered by the United States Department of Agriculture down through state agencies," explains Ron Jones, the Office of Health and Nutrition Director for the S.C State of Department of Education

Every school district operates their program differently, but each one ensures that their students' nutritional needs are being met during a very difficult time.

Furthermore, Ellen Fitch, the Director of Student Nutrition at Colleton County School District, discusses why she thinks the social aspect of the program benefits her students by providing them with some sense of normalcy. She says, "Even pschologically for the students that are trapped, basically, at home, just to be able to see people that they recognize ... it's not just about the meals. I think it's also about socialization." Amy Blackwell, the Childhood Nutrition Supervisor at Greenwood School District 50, adds to that, saying, "Just knowing that we're there, that we're still there, and that that's normal kind of keeps things normal for them."