Free meals for children will continue being offered to those in the Mars Area School District through the end of the school year as a result of authorization from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The program provides free breakfasts and lunches to all children within the district who are age 18 and younger.

“I don't think that's ever really happened,” said Bridget Buyna, food service director for Mars Area School District.

Mars Area School District and others in Butler County have been offering free meals to children during the pandemic in accordance with waivers issued by the USDA and authorized by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

The district continued offering meals to students in December, while schools were closed to in-person learning.

School buildings opened again to students Monday, with options for livestream interactive (LSI) and Mars Area Cyber Academy remaining available for families.

According to Buyna, meals can be picked up once a week and reheated at home for students who aren't learning in the classroom.

Students who have been learning in a brick-and-mortar setting don't need to take further action, according to the district's website.

They will not be charged for full cafeteria meals, although there will be charges for partial meals and a la carte items.

Buyna said meals are well-rounded, including entrees, milk and fruits and vegetables.

District cafeteria staff continues working on-site. Buyna said they are following pandemic protocol while doing so.

“We're doing all the precautions that we possibly can,” Buyna said.

Families wishing to pick up meals should contact Buyna.