By Lookout Staff

September 3, 2020 -- The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District will continue providing free meals to all students through the end of the year, District officials announced Thursday.

The announcement comes after the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) on Monday extended its free summer meal program, officials said.

The District received the waiver through December 31, or until available USDA funding runs out.

According to FDA officials, "The unprecedented move will help ensure -- no matter what the situation is on-the-ground -- children have access to nutritious food as the country recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic."

District students will continue to receive free meals, "regardless of qualification for the free and reduced lunch program," District officials said.

The grab-and-go breakfast and lunch program takes place Monday through Friday, except for holidays, at four District schools -- Santa Monica High School, McKinley Elementary and Will Rogers Learning Community in Santa Monica, and Webster Elementary in Malibu.

Adults can purchase meals for $2.75 for breakfast and $4.75 for lunch, according to officials.

"SMMUSD families may go to any of the four locations, even if not enrolled there," officials said.

"The student does not need to be present. A parent or guardian may pick up meals for students."

Meals can be picked up at Rogers, McKinley and Webster at the front of the school or in the drop off/ pick up drive through, officials said.

At Samohi meals can be picked up at the 7th and Michigan gate.

“Daily meal service for our students is critical for student learning,” said Superintendent Dr. Ben Drati.

“We have provided meals since our school closures in March, through the summer, and continue with this important program this fall, now for all students, free of charge.”