Student lunch debt relief is on the menu for Rapid City Area Schools. It comes courtesy of the Black Hills Area Community Foundation and a matching donation from the local city council.
Earlier this month, the council approved a $25,000 challenge fund for the community to match. The dollars are going to the Fed and Ready to Learn campaign.
Acting RCAS superintendent Cory Strasser said it’s no small contribution.
“Lunch debt is a big issue, and it doesn’t just affect our community – I’ve seen it in many districts," Strasser said. "So, for the foundation, for City Council, to step up and tackle this issue is awesome. It really shows the commitment to supporting our community.”
Strasser said lunch debt is a persistent problem.
“It’s always an issue, and it’s something we’re very cognizant of," Strasser said. "That is a huge part of learning, being fed, and having a full stomach. We know the research behind that helps students get through their day and are more ready to learn.”
There is still lunch debt to cover though. A link to donate to the Rapid City fund can be found here.