Biden Administration Extends Free School Lunch Program Through 2022 School Year

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced an extension of the universal free lunch program, now continuing through the 2021-2022 academic year. This initiative, initially scheduled to conclude in September 2021, will significantly benefit approximately 12 million children facing food insecurity amid ongoing challenges related to the pandemic.

In a statement, the USDA emphasized its commitment to providing safe and nutritious meals at no cost to children, particularly as many families struggle with job losses or furloughs while managing remote learning. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack assured that the USDA is dedicated to ensuring that children receive the essential nutrition they need. “States and districts requested waivers to facilitate safe school reopening in the fall, and USDA has responded to support schools and childcare facilities in delivering quality meals tailored to local needs,” he said. This extension also raises the reimbursement rates for school meal providers, enabling them to offer healthier food options.

The continuation of the free lunch program allows schools and child care facilities to serve breakfasts, lunches, and after-school snacks, with flexible meal timings. Parents can pick up meals at their convenience, maintaining social distancing through available drive-up services. Lisa Thompson from the nonprofit organization Nourish Our Kids praised the early announcement, stating it provides schools with necessary lead time for planning, in contrast to the chaotic uncertainty experienced last year.

Highlighting research from Tufts University, Stacy Dean, deputy undersecretary of the USDA, noted that children tend to consume the most nutritionally adequate meals when at school. Many depend on these programs for up to three meals a day, underscoring the importance of empowering educational institutions to continue providing healthy meals safely.

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Summary:

The Biden Administration has extended the universal free school lunch program through the 2021-2022 school year, benefiting millions of children facing food insecurity due to the pandemic. This decision allows schools to provide nutritious meals while addressing the needs of families impacted by job losses and remote learning challenges.


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