The local Connected Community Schools organization on Friday announced updates for food distribution initiatives at its sites in Rome and Waterville in response to the COVID-19 situation.

• The organization’s Rome food pantry, which has been offering food distribution for the community on Tuesdays at Gansevoort Elementary School, has provided food assistance to over 4,000 families as of Friday, said Connected Community Schools. Also, its Community Assistance HelpLine has assisted and triaged over 900 phone calls.

The organization is accepting any donations for nonperishable/shelf-stable food products and hygiene products, as well as monetary donations for which checks can be made out to Rome Alliance for Education. For information, call 315-982-2520.

• Another food distribution for families in the Waterville Central School District area will be April 28 from 1-5 p.m. at Waterville Junior/Senior High School. Food bags will include meat, easy-to-make meals, fresh produce and dairy products. The donation was made possible by a financial contribution awarded to Rome Alliance for Education by the COVID Response Fund, United Way of the Greater Mohawk Valley and The Community Foundation, said Connected Community Schools. It said it expects to assist over 500 families, adding that assistance will not be limited to families of students enrolled in the Waterville school district and there are no eligibility qualifications or identification needed.