Public-Private Partnership Supports Local Restaurants, Families

The City of Cedar Rapids, in partnership with the Cedar Rapids Community School District, is increasing food distribution to families in need while at the same time supporting local restaurants. This July, restaurants will have the opportunity to provide meals to qualified families enrolled in the Kids on Course University and Take 5! Reading programs sponsored by the Cedar Rapids Community School District and Zach Johnson Foundation.

The program accepts “take and bake” packaged meals for distribution to local families. The Cedar Rapids Community School District will oversee the distribution of food. The program will run July 14 – 22, 2020.

All locally owned restaurants are welcome to participate, with priority given to restaurants enrolled in the Payroll Protection Program (PPP). By assisting with meal preparation and distribution, restaurants benefit by having additional work for their employees, while also supporting local families in need. As part of Community Development Block Grant funding, restaurants will be reimbursed $5 for every meal prepared.

Getting Involved 

Restaurants who are interested in getting involved can sign up no later than Monday, July 6, 2020. Additional details and a sign-up form are available on the City’s economic development website.

Questions?

Please contact City of Cedar Rapids Community Service Coordinator Stephanie Schrader at s.schrader@cedar-rapids.org.