With each passing day, the number of meals being distributed by county schools increases.

It’s now been two weeks since officials made the decision to cancel classes for the rest of the year. Meanwhile, they vowed to make certain students still get fed.

While the method is different between the Warren County R-III and Wright City R-II school district, the impact and response have been similar.

“I think the kids are enjoying having a little bit of normalcy and surprise in their day,” said R-II Superintendent Dr. David Buck. “It gives them something to look forward to when the bus pulls up.”

Wright City School District has been using its transportation fleet to deliver meals directly to students, leaving bags of food on doorsteps or in driveways. From the first day of dispersal on March 23 to the final day of the month, the number of meals provided each day has increased.

“We had some families that originally turned them down that have since changed their minds,” said Buck. “They realized we have plenty for everyone, and it can be a helpful way to reduce stress on families during this time.”

Warren County R-III experienced an increase as well, as it has set up distribution in the parking lot behind Daniel Boone Elementary. On the first day 1,000 meals were given out. A week later that number has doubled to around 2,000.

“It’s definitely been a benefit to our community,” said R-III Superintendent Dr. Greg Klinginsmith. “It’s something that the school would normally be providing at this time, so families rely heavily on those meals.”

For those who do not have transportation to the school, R-III has teamed up with Agape Ministry to provide meal delivery into the community.

“They’ve been a great partnership,” said Klinginsmith. “We appreciate all they do for our community and their willingness to help disperse supplies.”

For those interested in receiving the meals, any child in the district age 18 or under is eligible. Those in the R-II district can contact any of the school offices to sign up for inclusion in delivery. Families within the R-III boundaries can simply come to the parking lot distribution area behind Daniel Boone Elementary on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

In addition to meals, R-II is also helping to distribute other necessities, such as baby formula and diapers. While the service ensures the basic needs of students are being met, it also helps staff in the district continue to earn a salary.

“By doing this, we’re allowed to keep our paraprofessionals and bus drivers employed,” said Buck. “Not only are we serving the kids, we’re also serving the community through helping keep people employed.”

While many R-III employees are also staying busy with meal distribution, Klinginsmith says even those without an active role will be compensated.

“All of our people are getting paid, regardless of whether they’re working or not,” said Klinginsmith. “We understand some have a fear of catching the virus or might be sick themselves, and we are respecting that.”

Buck says the district is going through its protocol daily, assessing all working staff with the checklist for any COVID-19 symptoms.

Perhaps the only setback R-II is currently facing is a shortage of bags, as Buck anticipates the district will need around 20,000 additional plastic bags to distribute meals. Given the current circumstance, the bags have to be new and cannot be recycled or donated.