"Expanded US Program Increases Eligibility for Free School Meals, Benefiting More Students"

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a rule change that will make millions of additional students in schools serving low-income communities eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch. Under the new rule, schools where 25% of families participate in income-based public benefits will have the federal government cover the cost of free meals for all enrolled students, compared to the previous threshold of 40%. This change will expand access to universal meals through the Community Eligibility Provision, reducing administrative burdens and ensuring children don't go hungry. Advocates argue that the federal poverty guidelines for free meals are outdated and fail to account for families living paycheck to paycheck. The rule change is seen as a step toward fulfilling the promise of healthy school meals for all.