Westbury school community makes sure students stay fed while remote learning after fire

WESTBURY, N.Y. -- Some students on Long Island are back to remote learning after a fire closed down their school. 

Lunch can often be forgotten working from home, but the community came together to help feed them.

It takes a village of PTA parents, cafeteria workers and school bus drivers. 

"About three weeks ago at 3 a.m. in the morning, we were informed that there was a fire in the basement of our middle school," Westbury Schools Superintendent Tahira Dupree Chase, Phd., told CBS News New York.

The smoke and water damage were so severe, Westbury Middle School could not open. 

"By 7:35 a.m., our scholars were on remote learning, because the pandemic already prepared us," said Dupree Chase. 

Then came concern about missing meals that most of the 1,200 students rely on.

"We know that in order to learn, the children need proper nutrition," Westbury Middle School Principal Felicia Crawford said. "So when we put the call out, they show up."

Volunteers from the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority showed up to sort, pack, box and load cereal, nuts, juices, fruit, chicken, pizza and milk. 

"It feels wonderful. I will always give my service," one member said.

"It just feels really great to be called to action," said another.

"It's an absolute pleasure to serve the community," another added.

Forty boxes per school bus went out for door-to-door delivery.

"The sandwiches they give us are tasty, and the drinks are good too," said 14-year-old Franco Acosta.

"They're home all day, I'm a working mom. So it's easier to have food that you can quickly grab," parent Isabella Hamilton said. 

We spoke with parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. 

"I do think it's a good idea," one person said.

"When I brought it to them, they were so happy," said another. "Thank you very much."

"Awesome idea that the school is doing, and I think it's very helpful to a lot of people in the community," another added.

The breakfast and lunch delivery will last until the students return following spring break and air quality tests giving the all-clear. They hope to welcome the kids back within two weeks.

"Honestly, remote is a good idea to keep them going to school, they don't miss a lot of days," aunt Leslie Romero said, adding the food is "really good for them."

Zach Guevera likes the food, but said "it's better being at school."

Until then, home delivery with a smile.