September 4, 2020 3:35 a.m.

The South Umpqua School District is now able to distribute free meals to all children ages 1-18.

A district release said the Oregon Department of Education and the USDA released updated guidance earlier this week, allowing for the change.

Previous requirements meant that South Umpqua could only serve students enrolled within the school district. With the nationwide extension of the Summer Food Service Program and Seamless Summer Option, any child can receive free meals. The current extension runs through December 31st.

Meal distribution in the district began on Monday. Next Tuesday, South Umpqua will begin in-person classes for grades K-3 with remote learning for those in grades 4-12. During this time, the district will provide meals in school for K-3. Meals will continue to be provided by bus routes for distant learners. Parents and caregivers can also pick up meals for their children at designated bus stops.

For route information and a schedule of stops, go to www.susd.k12.or.us.

The meal program is part of the USDA Food and Nutrition Service and is administered by the Oregon Department of Education Child Nutrition Programs.