2.7 million pandemic meals served

Norristown Area School District recently announced it has served 2.7 million free meals — breakfast and lunch — since the coronavirus pandemic began. About 4,000 children received the meals each day, according to the district, counting last year’s virtual learning. In an article on Patch.com, the district said, “For children, the program provides nutritious meals that meet the regulations contained in the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 as well as meeting updated meal pattern requirements and nutrition standards. For parents in the Norristown Area School District, the program offers a convenient method of providing a nutritionally balanced breakfast and lunch at no charge. For schools, the program enhances children’s learning abilities by contributing to their physical and mental well-being. Studies have shown that children whose nutritional needs are met are more attentive in class.”