Enthusiasm surrounds measure to provide universal free school meals

The state is considering giving free meals to all public school students in Hawaiʻi.

Thousands of students already take advantage of programs for free or discounted meals, but access often depends on a family’s income. Many students in low-income families need the support but can't get it.

“They don't qualify for any financial assistance. And so they just have to make it work, figure out where the money can come from,” said Jordan Smith, senior policy analyst for food equity at Hawai‘i Appleseed Center for Law and Economic Justice.

House Bill 1775 would make meals free for all students.

Last week at the state Capitol, students from Castle High School were among many who supported the bill. The House Committee on Education unanimously approved the bill.