Wicomico County Public School program has non-priced school meals

WICOMICO COUNTY, Md. — Even with the announcement that a federal judge is ordering the Trump administration to fund SNAP benefits, Wicomico County Public Schools is doing its part to feed the community.

Eric Goslee, director of Food and Nutrition Services, said the district participates in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), a USDA program that allows schools in low-income areas to provide free or reduced price meals to all students.

The USDA program allows for non-priced meals to be provided in school districts in low-income areas. 60-percent of Wicomico County Public Schools students qualify for free or reduced meals.  Goslee said, “Having a student coming coming to school that’s hungry. I believe they can’t learn well. And that creates other issues beyond what ultimately impacts the educational experience.”

“Students in certain districts or schools with a high need can get breakfast and lunch at no charge,” Goslee said.

In Wicomico County, 60 percent of students qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Goslee said ensuring students have access to healthy food is vital to their academic success. “A student who comes to school hungry can’t learn well, and that creates issues that go beyond education,” he said.

Wicomico County started the CEP program at one school about seven years ago and has since expanded it to others. Each meal includes up to seven items, such as two fruits, two vegetables, an entrée, and a grain and protein.

“We’ve received confirmation that our meals are funded through October and November,” Goslee said. “That will make a big difference for us.”

The program’s success in Wicomico County has allowed it to continue despite challenges like the current government shutdown. Some schools in the district also offer a “grab-and-go” breakfast program, where students can pick up a bag of breakfast items to eat in class.

Similar CEP programs are available in Somerset, Dorchester, and Caroline counties.