The schools are closed, but the Great Bend USD 428 Food & Nutrition Program is offering free meal service for children up to 18 years old.

The service began Tuesday. School officials announced that a meal package containing lunch and breakfast for the following day can be picked up at all five elementary schools and the Central Kitchen, 2201 Broadway Ave., from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday. The service will continue for now.

Food Services Director Kristy Alvord said 450 people filled out an online survey and based on that her department started the day with 500 meals that people could pick up. They were prepared to make more if needed.

The pickup sites are outside of the buildings, with curb-side pickup available.

“People don’t even have to get out of the car,” Alvord said. They do need to have the child present in the vehicle, or children can walk up on their own.

“Everything’s going well,” she said.

USD 428 Public Information Officer Andrea Bauer said the district ended up serving 324 meals the first day and 515 on Wednesday. “We’re preparing 600 meals today,” she said Thursday. “While we are serving at the five elementary buildings (and the Central Kitchen), the Central Kitchen is also operating as a back-up and able to make meals quickly if we run out at a location.” 

Free meal packages will continue to be available to all children 18 years old and younger, no questions asked. All area children are welcome. They are not required to attend USD 428, nor are they required to live in the City of Great Bend.

The menu for Friday - Breakfast: Muffin, juice, milk; Lunch: Ham & cheese sandwich, lettuce & tomato, apple, milk.