On July 18, 2024, the Cedar Rapids Community School District (CRCSD) and the USDA summer food service program partnered with the City of Cedar Rapids and Linn County to launch a free community meal program at Johnson STEAM Academy, 355 18th St SE, Cedar Rapids. The program was developed to help those facing food insecurity following the closing of the 1st Avenue Hy-Vee.

The District provided free breakfast and lunch to community members, no matter their age, Monday through Friday from July 18th to August 16th. In total, they served more than 1,348 meals to kids and adults at the location in just under six weeks.

“This collaborative effort is a powerful demonstration of what can happen when we unite as a community for the common good,” shared CRCSD Superintendent Dr. Tawana Grover.