Students struggle to learn when they’re hungry. School meals play a crucial role in alleviating childhood hunger — and, when schools provide free meals to all, they ensure that students have the nutrition they need during school hours.
Free school meals also help families who are struggling with the rising cost of living by eliminating the need to choose between buying school meals and covering other essential household expenses. It also promotes inclusivity and dignity by eliminating the stigma typically associated with receiving school meals or having meal debt.