The Importance of School Meals for All
This Hunger Action Month, as kids head back to class, we are bringing attention to the importance of school meals. Studies from states that fully fund school meals for all show that free school meals significantly reduce food insecurity and play a critical role in student health, well-being, and academic success.
We’re excited that Seattle Public Schools voted to fully fund school meals starting this fall, and we’ll continue to advocate for free school meals across Washington so all students can learn, grow, and thrive.
School meals have a HUGE impact on food insecurity. Households in School Meals for All states had a 12% lower prevalence of food insecurity overall than those without. And among the most vulnerable households, School Meals for All was associated with a 19% lower prevalence of food insecurity.
Like desks, books, or computers, school meals are a necessary school supply – possibly THE most important school supply.
Research shows free school meals have multiple positive effects on students’ health, learning, and well-being.