HOT SPRINGS, Ark. — Several large Arkansas school districts remained closed Friday as icy roads from the winter weather have kept administrators concerned.
One snow day has turned into a snow week, creating an issue for families because when kids aren't in school, they cannot get free meals.
The Hot Springs School District switched gears to help by rolling out food trucks across town on Friday.
"We're providing breakfast and lunch for students 18 and under at no cost," Chartwells Dining Services Director Brittany Hardage said.
After the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday turned into a week-long break, the district and its food service partner, Chartwells, took action by using food trucks.
Hardage said it fills a significant need.
"Days with no school are hard on families," Hardage said. "I know that we are often the only place where some kids get a hot meal."
So, they spread out across town to try and reach as many families as possible.
"We chose the stops that we use during the summertime, so we're already established," Hardage said. "Same times that we're normally here, so you know some familiar faces."
It's the first time they've used it in a weather-related situation.
Hot Springs School District Communications Director Jennifer Hoyt said the entire district receives free breakfast and lunch daily, so this felt like a natural fit to continue serving the meals, only on wheels this time.
"We're just glad we have the option," Hoyt said. "We've got two food trucks. We've got a great partner, so whenever we can make it happen, we will, but we're really glad that we were able to do it this week."
The families appreciate it, too.
Ambrosia Crable said this is a big help to her kids.
"They get the free lunch at school, which is wonderful," Crable said. Then, when you're off, especially with the weather now... it makes it difficult at times."
On Friday, Crable ventured out and took home a hot meal.
"It was wonderful that they reached out to the families to do that," Crable said.
The district and Chartwells gave away all 200 meals they prepared.
"We just wanted them to be safe this week," Hoyt said. "We look forward to seeing them back on Monday."