Schools across New York State have served more than 150 million free meals since the start of the school year in September, following implementation of the Universal School Meals law.
Governor Kathy Hochul’s Universal School Meals law, signed in May, guarantees that every student in New York has access to free, healthy breakfast and lunch at school. The initiative eliminates any financial requirements for families, helping reduce costs and ensuring no student goes hungry.
The law provides $340 million to fund the program, covering all students in participating school districts, charter schools, and nonpublic schools that take part in the national school lunch and breakfast programs. Under the initiative, the state now pays the student share for all meals, ensuring that every child can receive breakfast and lunch at no charge, regardless of family income.
“Universal Free School Meals are putting money back in families’ pockets and guaranteeing every student the nourishment they need to thrive, no questions asked,” Governor Hochul said. “No kid should go hungry in the classroom, and no parent should have to stretch their budget to pack a lunch. With 150 million meals now served to our students, we’re fighting for New York kids and making New York more affordable.”
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
