As more cases of COVID-19 arise domestically, each day brings with it the closures of elementary, middle, and high schools across the U.S. While these closures are necessary to stop the virus’ spread, they leave a vulnerable population in the lurch, and students who depend on school lunches for nourishment are in need of options.
While many school districts have arranged ways for kids to receive lunch and even breakfast while their schools are shuttered, several restaurants are also responding with discounted or free kids meals. The following brands are making it easier for children to stay well-fed during the coronavirus crisis, offering discounted or entirely free options for kids of all ages.
Moe’s Southwest Grill
Between March 21 and April 10, Moe’s Southwest Grill will offer a free kids entrée with the purchase of any adult entrée. Kids can choose a burrito, burrito bowl, quesadilla, or taco for their meal. Moe’s is also offering free delivery on all app- or website-placed orders of $10 or more through April 10 and is offering its Moe Monday deal (burritos starting at $5.99) all week through March 20.
Good Stuff Eatery, We, The Pizza, Santa Rosa Taqueria (Spike Mendelsohn concepts)
Concepts helmed by chef Spike Mendelsohn—including five-location burger chain Good Stuff Eatery, three-restaurant We, The Pizza, and Washington D.C.’s Santa Rosa Taqueria—are offering free kids meals with the purchase of an adult entrée. The deal has a two-kid limit and will continue as long as schools are closed due to coronavirus.
Joella’s Hot Chicken
All Joella’s Hot Chicken stores will offer free kids meals Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Families can order a meal for kids 10 and under free of charge, and no purchase is necessary. This promotion accompanies other Joella’s initiatives including free delivery with DoorDash March 17-31, contactless delivery, and new, chain-wide operating hours (11 a.m. to 9 p.m.).
Wings Over
Starting immediately, Wings Over is offering free kids meals to any K-12 child in need. The meals are available at select locations every day of the week and no purchase is necessary. “We know that there are a lot of families being affected due to school closures, workforce reductions, and many other situations,” chief wing officer Dan Leyva says in a statement. “While we know we can’t help fix everything, we hope we can provide some relief to those who need it.”
RASA
Indian fast casual RASA is offering free takeout meals for all children under the age of 18. The three-location chain is also offering free takeout meals to hospital workers who present valid ID and to RASA team members and their families.
“Please spread the word to friends and family who might be able to benefit from this service,” a tweet from RASA says. “We are only as strong as those most vulnerable in our communities.
Burger King
Beginning March 20 and running through April 6, Burger King is offering two free kids meals with any purchase through the Burger King app. The deal applies to takeout and drive-thru orders nationwide at participating U.S. restaurants while supplies last, and the coupon can be applied once per guest per day. In addition to its kids meal deal, Burger King is also offering free delivery via its mobile app on orders of $10 or more.
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s
At family sports pub chain Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, kids eat free Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children are able to select any meal off of the kids menu free of charge.
Piada Italian Street Food
While Piada’s seating areas are closed in all locations, the chain is continuing to offer carry-out and is also offering free to-go lunches for kids. Through April 3, students may order a kids pasta with sauce, cheese, and a fountain drink free of charge Monday through Friday between 10:45 a.m. and 1 p.m. Kids must be present to order the free lunch, and the deal is one per customer and valid for to-go orders only. The discount is not valid with other offers or discounts, online ordering, or Piada One.
