Hays, Kansas Community Rallies to Eliminate School Lunch Debt

The Moms Club of Hays, Kansas, is spearheading a community-wide effort to address a current total of $2,636 in outstanding school lunch debt within the Hays USD 489 school district. The initiative, dubbed “Feed the Kids,” aims to clear the balances and ensure all students have access to nutritious meals.

Fundraising Efforts Underway

The Moms Club will contribute funds from its own reserves, with a check being presented to Hays USD 489 Nutrition Services on March 1st. Recognizing the substantial amount still owed, the organization is actively seeking donations from residents and businesses in the Hays community.

How to Donate

There are three convenient ways to contribute to the “Feed the Kids” fundraiser:

• CheddarUp: Donations made through the CheddarUp platform (https://feedthekidshays.cheddarup.com) will be directly remitted to Hays USD 489 Nutrition Services by the Moms Club on March 1st.
• Check: Checks can be mailed, payable to Hays USD 489, attention Nutrition Services, to 323 W. 12th Street, Hays, KS 67601. Please include “School Lunch Debts” in the memo line.
• Direct School Donation: Individuals can also donate directly to a specific school within the Hays USD 489 district. Contact the school of your choice for instructions on how to contribute.

Fundraising Timeline and Progress

The fundraising campaign began immediately and will continue through February 28th. As of February 19, 2026, the community has already secured donations covering nearly half of the total outstanding debt, according to a Facebook post from Hays Post. https://www.facebook.com/hayspost/posts/feed-the-kids-fundraiser-to-clear-usd-489-school-lunch-debt/1500800095384586/

About Hays USD 489

Hays USD 489 serves the community of Hays, Kansas. More information about the district can be found at https://www.usd489.com/?lang=en.

This initiative provides a valuable opportunity for the Hays community to support its students and ensure they have access to essential nutrition.