Newburgh schools handed out its 1 millionth take-home meal on Wednesday since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

School staff say they are currently giving out 53,000 free meals each week.

The no-cost breakfasts and lunches are provided under a Department of Agriculture program that gives free food to school children, regardless of income.

Families told News 12 that the help is needed now more than ever.

Newburgh's free school food program is open to all district families. A list of pick-up times and locations is available on the district website.