The current lunch debt for LPS elementary schools stands at nearly $30,000. Thanks to a $19,000 donation from a variety of Masonic organizations in Lincoln, many parents no longer have to worry about paying it off.
“Reports a few months ago about the number of uncollected lunch accounts was concerning,” says Matt Zier, donation organizer and member of Lancaster Lodge No. 54. “So, first and foremost, our intent is to reduce the stress on families. Since the Masonic family is a community member, we also hope our donation takes pressure off LPS to collect accounts, which benefits taxpayers.”
Wendy Van is president of the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools and says the donation by the Masonic family will wipe out just over 63 percent of that debt.
“Every child deserves a chance to shine, and freedom from the weight of debt is one way the community can support our students,” Van say. “Though no child goes without lunch, families can feel the pain of their child’s lunch debt, and thanks to this gift, many will go into the summer months with a little relief.”
Zier says four Masonic lodges, an Eastern Star Chapter, Lincoln Scottish Rite, two bodies of the York Rite, Shriners and individual members contributed to the $19,000. “I set what people thought would be an unrealistic goal, but I like to shoot high. We met that goal and exceeded it slightly so I am actually personally very happy about the way the Masonic family came together to make this happen.