NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Youth Encouragement Services is making sure kids in Nashville don't go hungry since schools are not in session due to COVID-19.
For many students, school is their main source of a good meal. The organization is hoping to bridge that gap by making food deliveries to families in need throughout the city.
The group began dropping off the meals on March 26. Executive Director Viva Price said she knew the closure of schools would create a burden for students who depend on free lunches.
"We know our kids reside in areas where the schools over 93 percent of the kids actually depend on school lunches and things like that," said Price.
Price says many of their families live in a food desert, meaning they don't have easy access to a grocery store.
"Majority of families are low income so 9 out of 10 make less than 20,000 dollars and have four to five kids," said Price.
The free meals have become a saving grace to those who receive them.
"When COVID-19 hit my husband lost his job. YES said we can bring meals to your house and I said yes, please, we really do need them," said Melissa Snider, her kids participate in the program.
The organization has delivered about 130 meals a day, totaling to 3,000 meals since they started this delivery.
Price says they plan to keep making the deliveries rolling each day until it’s no longer needed. They're made possible through partnerships and donations. Visit their website, if you'd like donate.
