MAP: Here’s where Detroit children can get meals during the three-week school shutdown for coronavirus

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Editor’s note: The Detroit Public Schools Community District announced Monday, March 23, that it is scaling back the number of meals distribution locations. The map below has the updated information.

In a state where nearly half of the students qualify for subsidized school meals, a three-week shutdown could be overwhelming for children in need.

But many schools and community groups are working to make sure those children don’t lose out on the school meals they rely on everyday. Michigan schools are shut down through April 5 under an order from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who hopes the shutdown will slow the spread of the coronavirus.

We’ve provided a map that shows the locations where families can pick up meals. There’s a version of the map in Spanish here. If your school isn’t listed, please send the information to us at detroit.tips@chalkbeat.org and we’ll update the map of schools and the list of organizations.

Read below for more information about food resources and other support. 

• Many metro Detroit school districts, including those in Birmingham, Detroit and Novi, will continue providing meals to students. Some charter schools also will distribute meals during the three-week break. Among the locations for the Detroit school district is Osborn High School, where a teacher has tested positive for the new coronavirus. The district said all schools are undergoing a deep cleaning prior to Wednesday, when the meals will be available.
• Families can go to the Gleaners Community Food Bank website for details about where to pick up food. The agency is adding more food distribution sites, increasing its food supply and extending warehouse hours. Gleaners is also offering mobile food services at schools and other locations. 
• The United Way of Southeast Michigan’s 2-1-1- helpline will help direct families who need food, shelter, or medical assistance. The organization has also launched a COVID-19 community response fund to continue efforts to support families during the school closures. 
• Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries offers dinner meals for pick up every day at 5 pm.
• Cass Community Social Services will continue serving lunch daily from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

This story will be updated. 

Here’s where Detroit children can get meals during the three-week school shutdown for coronavirus

1. Schedules for breakfast and lunch pickups vary. If your school or community agency isn’t on the map, please send the information to us at meals@chalkbeat.org. Open the address sheet document here.