Food Safety & Food Assistance Programs

    School Food Worker Professional Guidance

    Currently there is no evidence to support transmission of COVID-19 is spread through food.  For school nutrition professionals and volunteers working in meal preparation and/or distribution at a school/school district site or other public settings, potential sources of exposure include close contact with co-workers, students, and families with COVID-19 and touching your nose, mouth, or eyes after touching contaminated surfaces or handling items that others infected with COVID-19 have touched.

    School Food Concessions Exemptions and Licensing Requirements

    All school food concessions must follow the Dine Safe Order and Responsible ReStartOhio Guidance
    All food concessions stands under the responsibility of the school district are exempt from licensing if in accordance with ORC 3717.42(B)(5) the, … school, …, preparing or serving food intended for individual portion service on its premises for not more than seven consecutive days or not more than fifty-two separate days during a licensing period.  This exemption extends to any individual or group raising all of its funds during the time periods specified in division (B)(5) of this section for the benefit of the church, school, or organization by preparing or serving food intended for individual portion service under the same conditions.

    Facilities that are exempt may contact the health district to obtain a letter of exemption to keep for their records by calling (330) 296-9919 ext. 124.

    If the school district does not meet this exemption, then food service license is required and can be obtained thru the following process:

    Additional Resources

    ODH Responsible ReSart Food (Dine Safe) Guidance Requirements click here. 

    PCHD COVID-19 Food Safety click here

    PCHD Food Safety Program & Resources click here

    CDC & OSHA Workplace Safety Guidance click here.

    Food Assistance Programs

    During Ohio’s coronavirus-related ordered school-building closure, many schools are ensuring students continue to receive nutritious meals. Some districts and schools can provide meals to all students in their communities, while others can provide meals only to qualifying students.