Starting Sept. 8, all student breakfast and lunch costs in Effingham County schools will be covered for the 2026-27 school year through a $4.8 million grant from OpenAI, according to the Effingham County School District. The funding is part of OpenAI’s Project Camellia Community Commitment, a broader initiative tied to the company’s plans to develop an artificial intelligence infrastructure project in Effingham County. The school district said the funding will provide financial relief for families while ensuring students have access to school meals. “This generous commitment from OpenAI provides immediate, practical relief for our community,” ECSD Superintendent Dr. Ford said. “Providing meals for our students allows our families extra financial flexibility while ensuring our students are nourished and ready to learn every day.” “Hungry students can’t learn,” said Jessica O’Leary, ECSD Nutritional Services Coordinator. “With daily expenses rising for so many families, knowing that their child will receive a healthy lunch gives our parents one less thing to worry about.” Project Camellia is a long-term AI infrastructure project that OpenAI is working to design and develop in Effingham County. According to information provided by OpenAI, the company is contracting with Georgia Power for 3.2 gigawatts of power for the project. Power is expected to be delivered in phases between 2028 and 2032. OpenAI said it will pay the full costs of the energy required to serve the project and…
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