A new law that went into effect this year allows more students to receive free meals. Rhonda Jackson, Director of No Kid Hungry Louisiana said there are three categories of school meals, free, reduced meals, and paid lunch.
“That reduced meal category is typically working families who are just struggling to make ends meet. What this bill does is allow those kids to eat free as well,” said Jackson.
The bipartisan legislation provides $860,000 in funding each year which allows 14,000 more students eligible for free meals, totaling 440,000 more meals for Louisiana students.
Jackson said there’s a common misconception about how dire the need is for students, especially when the state is known for such good food.
“But really one in five kids are living with childhood hunger as they reenter the classroom,” said Jackson.
By allowing more students access to free meals, Jackson is hopeful it will improve their lives and their ability to focus on their education.
Marrero Representative Kyle Green who sponsored the legislation said he plans to introduce legislation in the future that expands the program to include all students.
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