Advocates for children’s nutrition are urging the U.S. Senate to expand free school meal programs in a recent hearing.
During the hearing, advocates emphasized the importance of providing free meals to all students, regardless of income level, in order to address food insecurity and improve academic performance. They pointed out that many students who qualify for free or reduced-priced meals may still face hunger and may not be receiving adequate nutrition.
Advocates also highlighted the success of free school meal programs in increasing attendance, reducing disciplinary issues, and improving overall well-being among students. They argued that expanding these programs would not only benefit students, but also contribute to a healthier and more equitable society.
One of the key recommendations made by advocates was to implement universal free school meals, which would eliminate the need for income-based eligibility criteria and ensure that all students have access to nutritious meals during the school day.
During the hearing, several senators expressed support for expanding free school meal programs and emphasized the potential impact on children’s health and academic achievement. However, some expressed concerns about the cost of such programs and the need to prioritize funding for other educational initiatives.
Overall, advocates are hopeful that the Senate will consider their recommendations and take action to expand free school meal programs in order to improve the well-being and academic success of all students.
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