197: Melissa Gross

HR, Reading School District

Even though classrooms may have closed or classes may have gone virtual during covid, one part of the Reading School district that consistently remained open was the cafeteria. Melissa Gross and her team of food service workers at Reading School district continued to provide meals for children 5-7 days a week through the pandemic. 

Melissa explained that initially inventory was limited and very difficult to get. Under Melissa’s leadership, the team followed covid protocols as best as they could. 

They knew that as covid hit, children were still in need of food. She estimates that they provided 15,000 boxed meals a week for children in need. Many children would come to the school to pick up the meals. Additionally, the team managed to deliver meals to porches of special needs kids who could not pick them up. 

Knowing that many kids are totally reliant on these meals kept her team motivated. 

She was very grateful she and the team were recognized by Reading Eagle as “Hometown Heroes.”  She was especially inspired by the willingness of cafeteria staff to consistently provide for others in need during a very difficult time. 

“After this experience, I appreciate life much more,” said Melissa, “ and I am so proud of my team.”