Story updated on March 15, 2020, at 12:46 PM
The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), in conjunction with the MDE (Michigan Department of Education), has passed a federal waiver that will override the existing policy for children to eat together during school closures. Under the USP (Unanticipated School Program), the meals are accessible to children for free. The waiver will allow parents to pick up meals at specific locations to prevent human-to-human contact and prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19.) Although sponsors are mentioned in the USP paperwork, no sponsor or school district needs to request a waiver.
All schools in the State of Michigan will be closed from March 16 until April 6. Governor Gretchen Whitmer put this order in place, along with an executive order that prevents social gatherings of 250 or more people to combat COVID-19. There are currently 25 cases open in Michigan for residents who’ve tested positive for COVID-19.
UPDATE: There are now 33 confirmed cases of COVID-19 as of March 15, 2020. The 8 additional cases are spread out amongst the following counties:
Wayne County
Oakland County
Monroe County
Washtenaw County
For more information regarding Michigan’s summer meals program or about Unanticipated School Closure, schools can contact MDE at 517-241-5374 or mde-sfsp@michigan.gov.
Also, CLICK HERE to stay updated regarding COVID-19.
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