Mrs Tiggywinkle Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 (edited) I don’t know. I’m crowdsourcing opinions. i have two homeschooled kids and one who is doing virtual school since his school is closed. He attends an out of district special needs school. Technically none of my kids are enrolled in my school district then. The school just announced they are delivering 7 days of lunches to any child who lives in the district and signs up, whether the child is enrolled or not and regardless of income. Right now the district is fully virtual. Therefore my kids could qualify. Here’s my dilemma: I want to sign the kids up. I am exhausted and severely depressed. It’s been diagnosed as post-Covid major depression, probably due to brain inflammation. I don’t want to publicly give details but frankly—I would now qualify for inpatient crisis stabilization if I went to the ER. I am still dealing with Covid fatigue, but I’ve gone back to work and am homeschooling and finishing my master’s degree. All this to say: I am not in a good place and having easy to make lunches delivered would be amazing. It would also make sure I am feeding the kids a well rounded nutritious lunch, because I have zero appetite and am not eating much, so sometimes I forget it’s lunch time and then scramble to make something. But. We are financially well off right now, thanks to my husband’s construction company that’s taken off. I can afford to buy lunchables and toaster waffles that the kids can make themselves. I could even afford to eat lunch out every day, though we are trying to save money because I expect I will need to take a leave of absence from work if this depression/anxiety doesn’t stop soon. My kids are not enrolled in the district. It feels like taking something I don’t need and should go to people who do need it—though the grant is overfunded and why they’re giving it to any child. So I don’t know. I want to, but I feel like I’m stealing almost. We wouldn’t ever qualify for free lunch and my kids aren’t enrolled in the district; but it would help me so much. edit: I just looked on the school’s website and it’s not just lunch, but seven days of breakfast for each child too. Edited November 28, 2020 by Mrs Tiggywinkle 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AngieC Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 (edited) Do not think twice, sign up for the lunches. Your mental and physical health are far more important than worrying about whether or not you qualify or need the help. Edited November 28, 2020 by AngieC 23 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cintinative Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Is there a middleground somewhere, like taking the lunches and donating to a charity that provides meals to school children?? 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Tiggywinkle Posted November 28, 2020 Author Share Posted November 28, 2020 Just now, cintinative said: Is there a middleground somewhere, like taking the lunches and donating to a charity that provides meals to school children?? Is there a charity like that? I could look. This is a state funded grant. I suspect it is based on last year’s school population and they’ve lost 30% to actual homeschooling this year, so there’s fewer students enrolled than the grant is intended for. I could definitely increase my donation to the local charity that provides toys for Christmas in my county. I know the need is high and funds are low this year. This is a good idea. 7 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cintinative Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 (edited) 7 minutes ago, Mrs Tiggywinkle said: Is there a charity like that? I could look. This is a state funded grant. I suspect it is based on last year’s school population and they’ve lost 30% to actual homeschooling this year, so there’s fewer students enrolled than the grant is intended for. I could definitely increase my donation to the local charity that provides toys for Christmas in my county. I know the need is high and funds are low this year. This is a good idea. I found this. https://www.feedingamerica.org/our-work/hunger-relief-programs/backpack-program You could also look for a local group that does this. I will keep googling. Another one: https://www.nokidhungry.org/what-we-do It looks like most of these run via the local food bank, so would be a good first step. Edited November 28, 2020 by cintinative 2 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
regentrude Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Take the lunches because it makes your life easier. Donate money to a suitable cause so you don't feel like you're taking away from the needy. 16 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
saraha Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 I say do it. God is providing you with a helping hand in the form of less planning, shopping etc so you can get better. Pay it forward later when you can. 12 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rebcoola Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Take the lunches!! No guilt that's why they are offered to everyone because they know their are other reasons besides money that make it hard to provide a good lunch. 14 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
scbusf Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Don't even think twice about it. DO. IT. I've been getting the lunches for my kids. My kids are homeschooled, but the district has made it clear that the lunches are for ALL kids. When I was going through a depressive episode a couple of months ago, picking up the lunches helped so much. DO IT. 9 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Katy Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Take the lunches. You've had an exhausting difficult year even before round 2 of covid, your kids qualify, and it will make your life easier. You're not taking anything away from anyone by accepting, and you might be HELPING people get similar help next year. The only reason you are even questioning this is that you are depressed. Take the lunches and don't think twice about it. At some point in the future when things are settled down and you actually have money in savings for emergencies, then find a charity that helps people in your area. A food bank or something. Don't worry about it now. 9 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
historically accurate Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 They are available to any child; therefore, your children qualify. Take the help that is being offered. Do not spend a minute worrying about it. Hugs to you, Ms. Tiggywinkle. 6 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Terabith Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Utilizing things like lunches helps keep numbers up which makes it more likely to get grant funding. You need this. Take it and don't feel guilty. 9 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Caroline Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 It is actually helping to keep the school cafeteria workers employed. Go ahead and take the lunches. 9 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
happi duck Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Another vote to take the lunches! 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
alisoncooks Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 It would benefit your family -- the need doesn't need to be financial. Do it. 5 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Annie G Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Take it. You do have a need, it’s not just financial. I’m sure there are plenty of parents in your district who need the meals because they’re struggling to suddenly homeschool their kids (which is how virtual school feels to folks used to sending kids off to school every day). A need is a need. Hope it helps you by at least taking breakfast and lunch prep off your to do list. 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Shoeless Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Take the lunches. The terms of the program state they are available for any child in your district. You aren't doing anything wrong and this would help you right now. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
prairiewindmomma Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 (edited) We are getting the free lunches. The USDA has funded the grants through the school year. The USDA funds the school district based on how many meals are actually distributed. The school districts use the funds—and keeps their cafeteria workers employed, keeps contracts with farmers funded, and provides free foods to kids 0-18 (no enrollment required). This is a win-win-win scenario because presumably this frees up funds for families who can spend on other things. Our district delivers meals via bus routes. ETA: our district begs people to sign up because they have had budget cuts from the state and desperately needs these additional funds Edited November 28, 2020 by prairiewindmomma 11 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
prairiewindmomma Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2020/10/09/trump-administration-extends-free-meals-kids-entire-school-year 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Toocrazy!! Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Yes, take the lunches. Donate money if that is what would make you feel better. Every child in our county gets free breakfast and lunches. It’s actually cheaper for the county to provide for everyone, then try to separate by the income requirements. So they switched this school year for all students to receive free breakfast and lunch. If it is convenient for you to pick up the meals, then 100% you should take advantage of that service. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Harriet Vane Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Yes, take the lunches. No guilt whatsoever. Your children qualify, end of discussion. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
melmichigan Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 (edited) I would most definitely take advantage of the program. We have been getting the breakfast and lunches from our local school district since the beginning. When they started things were very financially difficult, they are better now, but with numbers climbing again we don't know what the next few months will bring. I have spoken with people running the program, I called when they first came out and I wasn't sure of the requirements (their flyer was a little vague), and they are for everyone regardless of financial need. I felt better the first time I went through the line behind a new Cadillac SUV. 🙂 They help keep our local families working as well. Don't hesitate. I just did our sign up for the coming week. <<<hugs>>> Edited November 28, 2020 by melmichigan 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mathnerd Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Take the lunches for now because your kids are better off with mom getting a break from cooking at this time. If you feel uncomfortable about accepting the lunches, in addition to donating to charities, you can drop out of this program when your health situation improves. Do the things that help you most in this current situation. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
EmilyGF Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Take the lunches. When ds went to public school, I packed him a lunch every day and it was literally thrown in the garbage daily and replaced with a free lunch. There was no way I could stop him from taking the free lunch. Take it. You need it. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gardenmom5 Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Our district has been doing this since March. Originally I wasn't doing it because we don't need the support, and dudeling wasn't getting free/reduced lunches. (he's such a picky eater - he wouldn't eat them anyway.) Then they started robo calling everyone in the district (every week) to make them aware the lunches were available for any child in the district (enrolled or not, need based, or not.). If all the kids who would go hungry without it are being fed, even if you don't need the financials of it - it sounds like the mental/physical of it would be a needed support while you continue your recovery. (which would support your family.) 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ailaena Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Please do it. Sometimes, need isn’t about the money. I hope you begin an upswing soon! ❤️ 7 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ottakee Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 6 minutes ago, Ailaena said: Please do it. Sometimes, need isn’t about the money. I hope you begin an upswing soon! ❤️ Exactly. Earlier this year I got lunches for my daughter because it gave her a sense of normalcy in an upside down covid world. I have previously gotten extra snacks from the school as my foster boys were used to getting them and again it provided normalcy and security for them. Take the lunches. 6 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ausmumof3 Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 You should definitely take the lunches. You’re sick because you’ve been caring for others and while your kids could do fine they will benefit from having the lunches provided for a while. If they’re feeling a bit worried or stressed it will be something normal and reassuring for them having the lunches turn up each day. also I’m sorry to hear you’re still not doing well and really hope you start getting better soon. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Carol in Cal. Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Meals on Wheels is not means tested. The people who need it need it because they are frail and have a hard time shopping and cooking. This is analogous, to my mind. You are frail and would have an extremely hard time shopping and cooking. It’s temporary in your case, but it’s real nevertheless. Do it. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KungFuPanda Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 You NEED the break. TAKE the break. It’s for the greater good. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Acadie Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 (edited) Please accept the support the universe is offering to make your life a little easier! And although I think the idea of a donation is lovely, I wouldn't want it to add any complication or extra tasks to your plate. Charitable donations are their own separate issue, that you can address whenever or however you like. I'm guessing you have enough going on that that time is not now. But if--and only if--you're presently drawn to that idea and can easily implement it, go ahead. Just do whatever makes your life a simpler right now. My guess is that's just accepting the lunches. PS--I love that the vote is unanimous. All the mamas agree, take good care of yourself and take the lunches! Edited November 28, 2020 by Acadie 6 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Danae Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Take the meals. Your children qualify because they live in the district and that is the only qualification. You won't be taking meals from someone who needs them more because there are enough. If there were a limited number of slots and a waiting list this might be a dilemma. As it is, not even a question. Sign up right now! 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Elizabeth86 Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Yes you are in need of it. If you need it,take it! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
littlebug42 Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Definitely take them. The offer is there for the entire community. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
VickiMNE Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Yes, take it. The idea of the program is to benefit families hit (in some way, any way) by Covid. That takes all forms. Yours isn't necessarily loss of money but loss of health and strength. The program IS for you and your kids. 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Twolittleboys Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 I say go ahead. And if you feel guilty about the money, donate an adequate amount to a charity/cause of your choice. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
easypeasy Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Sign them up. ASAP. Zero guilt. The offer is there for, quite literally, anyone who would be benefitted by it. You're not saving anyone any money by NOT using the program and the program benefits by having more kids in the area signed up. Save your sanity when there is such a helpful program ready and waiting to help you out. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
medawyn Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Yes, use it. No guilt. You need the break. It’s specifically provided for all children in the district regardless of enrollment; you qualify. Also, the more meals served, the better numbers they have for future funding. Plus employing cafeteria workers, probably janitorial staff, and in our city, bus drivers who are delivering the lunch/breakfast boxes along their routes for families who can’t pick up at the school. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Absolutely take the meals! I hope you can get to a better place for yourself soon. (((((Hugs)))))) 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
catz Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 I’d take the lunches no question. I know homeschooling families in our district taking advantage. If at some point you have the bandwidth on the other side of this, make a donation to a local PTA or something along those lines. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ditto Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Take the meals being offered. This is a lifeline that you desperately need. Do not feel guilty. I hope that you feel better soon and I am so sorry you are dealing with so much due to that nasty little witch Covid. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kiwik Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Put the money you would spend aside and the kids can choose who or what to donate it too next year. If it is a grant you not taking them is not really going to benefit anyone else I probably wouldn't but that is because one kid is gluten free and extremely fussy and the other isn't a lot better. It would stress me out even more when it wasn't eaten. Sometimes when you are offered something it is best just to smile and say thank you. It makes the person giving feel good. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
73349 Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 (edited) In your shoes, I'd take it, and give the money it saved me to the food bank at the end of each month if I felt we were still "too well-off" for it. Edited November 28, 2020 by Carolina Wren Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pam in CT Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Adding to the chorus: take the *service* that the delivered meals offer to you in your time of real need for services; find a suitable food-based organization and write a compensatory check to support the real *hunger* needs of so many others in this time; and do not feel a moment of guilt. Take help where you need it; offer help where others need it. (( I hope your energy returns and your spirits lift. )) 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
City Mouse Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Absolutely! In addition to all the above great reasons, it is a novelty for the kids and a bit of fun each day or week to see what is offered. Back before we figured out that my DS could not have gluten, he used to get the free summer lunches just for something to do. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Scarlett Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 3 hours ago, medawyn said: Yes, use it. No guilt. You need the break. It’s specifically provided for all children in the district regardless of enrollment; you qualify. Also, the more meals served, the better numbers they have for future funding. Plus employing cafeteria workers, probably janitorial staff, and in our city, bus drivers who are delivering the lunch/breakfast boxes along their routes for families who can’t pick up at the school. Yes. All of this. I think you should take it and have zero guilt. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Tiggywinkle Posted November 28, 2020 Author Share Posted November 28, 2020 In my 9 years in the Hive, this is the first time I remember a unanimous agreement. 🤣 Thank you. I signed the kids up. 25 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
alisoncooks Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Also, don't feel obligated to donate money to "make up" the difference. You may need it. I truly pray for you a quick recovery, but I'd put any extra $$ aside, just in case. For medical bills or anything you might later need. 7 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SKL Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 Yes, I think that your health situation definitely justifies it, and this would probably be best for your kids also. You can compute the savings and decide on a donation to a food charity or other good cause, whenever the time is right for you. What a wonderful blessing at such a time. I am thankful that families are being cared for in this way. I hope you feel better soon! 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sassenach Posted November 28, 2020 Share Posted November 28, 2020 1 hour ago, alisoncooks said: Also, don't feel obligated to donate money to "make up" the difference. You may need it. I truly pray for you a quick recovery, but I'd put any extra $$ aside, just in case. For medical bills or anything you might later need. AGREE! Just think of all of the money you've saved the government by homeschooling your high needs kids. AND you're a public servant who caught this on the job. Do not think twice about accepting this service. ((((HUGS)))) 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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