There are as many as 17 million American children who are potentially facing hunger as a result of the pandemic, according to the nonprofit organization Feeding America.

Local school districts are taking steps to make sure those children aren't in Butler County.

Through waivers issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, schools are offering children ages 18 and younger free meals until the end of the school year.

As the food services director for Karns City Area School District, Alex Spalding said the waivers provide some much-needed assistance.

“The Karns City Area is an area in which a decent portion of families are struggling to provide meals for children,” Spalding said. “This ensures all school-age children will be able to receive at least a breakfast and lunch when school is in session.”

Sanctioned by the USDA, the waiver allows districts to feed all children within their limits, not just those enrolled in school.

“This means there is less food insecurity for anyone we are able to distribute meals to,” said Darlene Carmack, food services director for Seneca Valley School District.

Seneca Valley served 5,231 free breakfasts and 5,231 free lunches the second week of January. Spalding said Karns City averages a distribution of about 274 meals on remote-learning days.

Carmack said the waivers in general are about helping families worry less, particularly when there are other things to worry about.

“Learning from home can be difficult if you do not have nutritious foods readily available,” Carmack said.

“You can't learn if you're worried about your stomach growling,” said Barb Gerginski, kitchen manager for the Evans City schools in the Seneca Valley district.

Meals include protein, grains, fruits, vegetables, juice and milk.

Funding free meals is a federal response to the pandemic.

Through a series of waivers, the United States Department of Agriculture has been passing food funds onto states, which in turn have been developing their own distribution programs.

In Pennsylvania, the first round of free meal waivers were issued last March. They have been updated throughout the pandemic to meet the needs of citizens.

Spalding sees meal distribution as a way to help those who are financially, physically or emotionally drained.

“This serves as a positive way to provide for others,” Spalding said.

He said it's also important to remember many families use cafeteria services during the school year. Families who this year have children learning remotely may be incurring additional costs.

Spalding said it's also important for people to know that food that isn't taken through meal distribution and reaches its expiration date is disposed of. Families should feel comfortable taking free meals if they're offered.

Heading into summer, districts are keeping an eye on the status of local and state entities.

“It is important that families know that there is free food all summer long in certain areas,” Carmack said.

Some may not realize how many people need help, and that if they need help, they're not alone.

Gerginski indicated free meal distribution can certainly open a person's eyes.

“The need is there and you don't realize it until you do something like this,” Gerginski said.

Eagle staff writer Sebastian Foltz contributed to this report.