As of this week , Michigan is the 7th state in the nation to pass Universal School Meals into law. Their “Healthy School Meals for All” program covers breakfast and lunch for students from Pre-K to grade 12, beginning in this upcoming school year.
In many districts, only students who qualified for SNAP benefits or Medicaid were eligible for free or reduced priced meals prior to Michigan passing Free School Meals for All.. Michigan students displayed improved readiness and success in learning during the pandemic when the federal government helped public schools provide free breakfast and lunch regardless of income.
The office of Governor Gretchen Whitmer says this program will help feed 1.4 million children across the state, and will save families at least $850 a year.
“Today is a historic day in Michigan: the Michigan Legislature has voted to create and fund the Healthy School Meals for All program - no-cost breakfast and lunch for all public-school students—in its state budget. Proper nutrition is a key component of a heart-healthy lifestyle, and ensuring all students' bodies are nourished so they can be ready to learn in the classroom sets them up to reach their full potential,”
- Collin McDonough, American Heart Association Government Relations Director, Michigan
