During the pandemic, childhood food insecurity increased dramatically, prompting the USDA to temporarily fund school meals for all children, free of charge through the Summer of 2022. Thankfully, Pennsylvania stepped up when this funding expired and ensured that all students continued to have access to breakfast. While we are incredibly grateful that Governor Shapiro has continued to fund breakfast, Universal Lunch was left out of his 2024-2025 budget.
We know the positive impacts of Universal Lunch: discipline rates go down, test scores and school attendance rates go up, children are fed nutritious and quality meals, and no longer have to bear the burden of their family’s financial status. That is why we are 100% committed to fighting for Universal Lunch, which has led us to a legislative campaign. We are currently looking for a champion of a bill in favor of Universal Lunch across the Commonwealth and need your help to find one.
Parents and children, join us on May 8th at 11:00 AM for an event at the Pennsylvania Capitol in Harrisburg to demonstrate the necessity of Universal Lunch for all Pennsylvania children. Lunch will be provided onsite for participants.
* All children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.