Article Summary –
Nearly 80% of Pennsylvania voters support universal free school lunches, highlighting a bipartisan issue. Currently, only breakfast is free. Lawmakers proposed a $25 million budget for free lunches, with bills still in committee. Advocates stress the importance of school meals in combating childhood hunger and enhancing education.
Nearly eight in 10 Pennsylvania voters support implementing universal free school lunches across the state.
All Pennsylvania public school students enjoy free breakfast, but not lunch. A vast majority believe this should change. A poll by Susquehanna Polling and Research reveals 77% support universal free lunches for K-12 students.
“Pennsylvania voters might be divided on who they choose at the ballot box, but this remains one issue that unites nearly everyone,” said Melissa Froehlich Green, communications chair for the School Nutrition Association of PA.
Pennsylvania provides free breakfast to all students in schools participating in the National School Lunch and Breakfast programs. The poll indicates voters want this to become a higher legislative priority.
Some lawmakers advocate for a universal free lunch program. Last year, Sen. Lindsey Williams (D-Allegheny) and Rep. Emily Kinkead (D-Allegheny) introduced bills in the Senate and House requesting $25 million for a no-cost lunch program. Both bills remain in committee.
“No child should go hungry or feel shame about not being able to afford a meal in school,” Kinkead stated. “Research shows school meals are as critical to learning as textbooks and teachers.”
One in eight kids in Pennsylvania faces hunger, according to the School Nutrition Association of PA. In rural areas, it rises to one in five. Studies highlight that school meals reduce childhood hunger, improve nutrition, and enhance development.
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