As the federal government shutdown trudges ahead with no compromise in sight, many furloughed workers and their families are feeling the pinch on their finances.

Fortunately, that sad news comes a ray or two of sunshine as other businesses/organizations – public and private – are stepping up to the plate to provide assistance to federal workers who are missing their paychecks during the shutdown.

Hertford County Public Schools (HCPS) is among those seeking to provide assistance. Beginning Wednesday, Jan. 23, any federal employee with proper federal identification will be able to eat lunch for free. Present your ID at Hertford County Middle School or Hertford County High School to receive your meal. This meal will include entrée, vegetable, bread, fruit, and tea.

HCPS has created a special account at each school to support this initiative. Upon arriving, please report to the main office and someone will direct you to the cafeteria manager.

Hertford County Public Schools is creating a fund that seeks to provide “a hot meal” for federal employees in need during the ongoing government shutdown. The special meal fund is open to the public for anyone who wishes to donate. If you would like to make a contribution, all donations may be made to the Hertford County Board of Education Nutrition Director and will be placed on the meal fund accounts at the two schools, 701 North Martin Street, Winton, North Carolina 27986.

Because public schools in the county provide free lunch to all students, HCPS cannot legally give food to the public without reimbursement of the cost. The Meal Fund gives the Hertford County Public Schools community the opportunity to lend a helping hand.

“We are grateful for any of our partners or individuals who wish to donate to this fund. Hertford County Public Schools is always ‘all in’ for the betterment of our school district and community,” stated HCPS Superintendent Dr. William T. Wright Jr.

If you have any questions, contact Patrice Scott, HCPS Nutrition Director, at 252-358-8548.