Tag

Childhood Hunger

All articles tagged with #childhood hunger

Louisiana Governor Stands Firm Against Summer EBT Program
politics2 years ago

Louisiana Governor Stands Firm Against Summer EBT Program

Louisiana Governor Landry has decided not to participate in the federal Summer EBT Program, sparking criticism from the state's Democratic Caucus and others who argue that thousands of children will go hungry without it. The governor's office contends that the program is no longer necessary due to the state's existing social safety net programs, including SNAP and TANF. However, critics argue that the federal resources should be accepted to ensure children are adequately nourished, while the Department of Education cites concerns about committing to increased spending and the availability of existing meal programs.

Wider Access to Free School Meals in the US
education2 years ago

Wider Access to Free School Meals in the US

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has expanded access to free breakfast and lunch for millions of additional students in schools serving low-income communities. The department has lowered the eligibility threshold for the Community Eligibility Provision, allowing schools to provide no-cost meals to all students. Previously, at least 40% of students' households had to be enrolled in income-based federal assistance programs, but the new rule lowers that threshold to 25%. This expansion aims to decrease childhood hunger, improve child health, and reduce the social stigma associated with reduced-cost meals. Grants worth $30 million will be distributed to rural school districts, and additional funding will be provided for equipment and Farm to School programs.

"Expanded US Program Increases Eligibility for Free School Meals, Benefiting More Students"
education2 years ago

"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.