By Virginia Scholtz
Northside News

COVID-19 and social distancing haven’t stopped Madison schools from providing breakfast and lunch to their students. When in-person classes are held, breakfast and lunch are ready and waiting for any hungry child who wants to eat. 

Many of our Northside schools have a large percentage of students who live in families without a lot of money. Reduced cost and free meals are provided at school through a program of the U.S. Food and Nutrition Service.

When the pandemic closed Madison schools, MMSD’s Food and Nutrition Department adapted to meet the challenge. Market Food Boxes are now distributed from area schools. Each box has food for five breakfasts and five lunches. Milk — both white and chocolate — is also sent home.

The Madison School District is offering curbside meal service at 40 school sites, for all children 18 years of age or younger.

Parents are asked to pre-order on the web at madisonmetro.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2mgrebS5gfTcAQt. If you have questions or special dietary needs, call at 608-204-4001 or email food@Madison.k12.wi.us.

In addition to ensuring access to adequate nutrition, Community Schools provide additional support to families who might be short on clothing and other basics. On the Northside, Lake View Elementary and Mendota Elementary are Community Schools.

The resource coordinator at Lake View is Rachel Deterding, 608-576-5004, email rdeterding@madison.k12.wi.us. At Mendota it is Sonia Spencer, 608-204-7845, email stspencer@madison.k12.wi.us.