Minnesota is one of several states that have implemented permanent universal free meals programs in schools, ensuring that students have access to nutritious meals regardless of their families’ income. The initiative, which was passed into law in March, will cost about $200 million annually. The move comes as many families struggle to afford the cost of meals, leading to students skipping meals and going hungry. Michele Hawkinson, the food service director for Tracy Area Schools in Minnesota, expressed relief that children in her district will no longer have to worry about missing out on meals.
The states that have implemented these programs, including California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Mexico, and Vermont, are finding different ways to pay for them. Massachusetts, for example, is using revenue from its new millionaires’ tax, while Colorado is raising funds by limiting state tax deductions for affluent residents. Other states are drawing from their general budgets. The states’ actions are building on a federal Covid-19 relief program that provided free meals to all students for over two years. During that time, around 30 million students were receiving free meals at school, an increase from the 20 million children who qualified based on household income prior to the pandemic.
One of the benefits of offering free meals to all students is that it reduces the stigma felt by some kids who receive free meals. It also increases the likelihood that students will actually partake in breakfast and lunch, thus improving their ability to learn. Many schools are adopting a more holistic approach to education, recognizing that hunger can hinder a child’s readiness to learn. States are also realizing that investing in children’s education and well-being can have long-term financial benefits, such as preparing them for the workforce.
While there are clear benefits to universal free meals programs, they also pose challenges to school districts. With the inability to increase meal rates, districts must rely on state reimbursements to cover rising costs of food, equipment, and labor. Additionally, districts still need federal funding to cover the cost of feeding children who are eligible for free and reduced-price meals. This means that districts must still encourage parents to complete applications, even when they are told that everyone can eat for free. Communication with families has been challenging for some districts, as confusion arises about the new program.
Despite the challenges, the implementation of permanent universal free meals programs in schools is a step forward in ensuring that all students have access to nutritious meals. By eliminating the financial burden on families and reducing the stigma associated with free meals, these programs create a positive environment in the cafeteria and improve students’ overall well-being and academic performance. As more states join the movement, the hope is that all students across the country will have equal access to healthy meals, setting them up for success in the classroom and beyond.
Original Story at www.cnn.com – 2023-09-09 14:01:00
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