November 12, 2025 — As a federal government shutdown pulled SNAP support from families across Franklin County, Columbus City Schools (CCS) jumped into action, opening five sites for emergency meal distribution. Volunteers from the District, Columbus Board of Education, partner organizations, and student groups moved with purpose, loading boxes into waiting vehicles. Families offered thanks, and a steady sense of service shaped the morning despite the cold.

"We are here to support the community," said Maceo Bates Career-Technical Education instructor at Linden-McKinley High School. "We understand it's tough times out here for families, and we just want to lend a hand and support them. I feel proud that our school was selected to be a distribution site. [Distributing this food] not only feels good to see, but to be part of it is very fulfilling."

There are currently around 80,000 children on the SNAP benefits program in Franklin County. The federal government shutdown resulted in $31 million in SNAP support being removed from households across Franklin County alone. With the mounting hunger crisis, local leaders moved fast to address the situation. A City of Columbus grant of $3 million went to immediate relief for SNAP recipients within the city.

The District, in partnership with the City of Columbus, supplied 3,728 meal kits with shelf-stable meals during the first round of giveaways. The effort was supported by a $125,000 grant that ensures families continue to have reliable access to food during the federal shutdown. 

"The strength of our District lies in the way our community responds in moments of need," said CCS Superintendent/CEO Dr. Angela Chapman, "I'm so proud of our staff, students, board members, and community partners who stepped up to make sure families won't go hungry during this challenging time. Every meal we share is a message to our CCS students and their families that their community believes in them, that they matter, and that we will always stand beside them no matter the circumstances."

CCS serves a diverse student body and provides free breakfast and lunch to all students. Many students rely on these meals for daily stability, and food insecurity disrupts their focus on learning. The District aims to ease that strain by giving families support during this period of financial pressure.

West, Columbus International, Linden-McKinley, Walnut Ridge, and South high schools saw steady turnout, and families from across the District received support. 

"I am grateful to have South serve as a site for our CCS meal distribution center," said Principal of South High School Christy Nickerson. "It reflects our vision to serve as a resource for the whole family. We believe that every child's success begins with a strong and supportive family. It is imperative that schools serve as a resource for the entire community, ensuring every child has the foundation they need to thrive in school and beyond."

Volunteers stepped in at every site. Columbus Board of Education members greeted cars and loaded bags into vehicles. The experience moved Board Member Sarah Ingles, who shared concerns about the shutdown and gratitude for the chance to meet a need in the CCS community. 

"We are lucky that the City of Columbus has partnered with CCS to bring forward this event so that we can make sure that our families have food during this critical time," Ingles said. "It is frustrating that we are in this position, but it is uplifting to see the community rally around our children and families to make sure that folks have food going into this weekend. It's also incredible to see our youth playing a part in making the world a better place."

Students also played a significant role, as nearly a dozen Linden-McKinley students spent their Friday evening packing hundreds of meal bags. Many shared a sentiment of equal responsibility to support the same neighborhoods that raised them over the years. Their work helped move food quickly into the hands of families who needed aid.

"Some people don't have any food at their home," said Linden-McKinley senior Randy Jackson. "I was that kid, going to churches and food pantries. I think it's time for me to give back to the community. It feels good to help your community out."

CCS will continue to support students during the shutdown and the SNAP payment delay.

The next meal distribution will take place Friday, Nov. 14, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at these locations:

• Columbus International High School – 4077 Karl Rd.
• Linden-McKinley STEM Academy – 1320 Duxberry Ave.
• South High School – 1160 Ann St. 
• Walnut Ridge High School – 4841 E. Livingston Ave.
• West High School – 179 S. Powell Ave. 

Each distribution strengthens the neighborhoods our students call home and reinforces a simple message for every learner and family: your District stands with you and your community is ready to show up when it counts.