Archdiocesan cafeterias provide free meals to students at participating schools

Story and file photo by Beth Donze, Clarion Herald

School Food and Nutrition Services of New Orleans, Inc., the archdiocesan agency that oversees the cafeteria service at most of the metro-area's Catholic schools, announced today that it will provide complimentary meals every school day to all students enrolled in its 67 participating elementary and high schools.

“(By accepting the free school meals) you are not taking food away from someone who needs it more. We have plenty to go around,” said Ellen Gauthreaux, director of School Food and Nutrition Services, explaining that the USDA is covering the cost of the school meals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The free meals will be provided through the end of the 2020-21 school year, or until funds are depleted, Gauthreaux said.

The service is available to any student enrolled in one of School Food and Nutrition Services' network of 67 schools, regardless of whether he or she has opted for on-campus or remote learning, Gauthreaux said.

For more information, please call the individual school. The website of School Food and Nutrition Services of New Orleans is www.schoolcafe.org.

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