Universal Free School Meals
Although it is rarely included on the standard school supply list, school meals are one of a child’s most important school supplies.
Universal free school meal (UFSM) programs offer up to two free, nutritious meals (i.e. breakfast, lunch, or both) to all students in a qualifying school, regardless of their ability to pay. These programs are designed to improve access to and increase participation in federal school meal programs–especially for students from households with lower incomes.
UFSM programs are a proven strategy to address Hawaiʻi’s rising rates of childhood food insecurity and help working families overcome long standing, systemic economic, administrative, language, and social barriers to accessing school meals.
The Case for Universal Free School Meals
Eliminate social stigma
Hawaiʻi still allows schools to deny meals to students who have a negative meal balance, making students not only hungry, but also ashamed. UFSM creates a more inclusive and supportive school environment.
Improve academic performance
Studies of UFSM in other states have shown large test score improvements and improved academic performance.
Promote equity & justice
UFSM supports ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households in Hawaiʻi struggling to stretch their budgets. It makes sure that every child has access to nutritious meals regardless of ability to pay
Improve nutrition & reduce food insecurity
For many students, school breakfast and lunch are the only full, balanced meals they receive a day. UFSM is a proven strategy to improve nutrition and food insecurity.
Support locally grown food
UFSM supports Farm-to-School initiatives and local farmers by incorporating fresh, locally grown produce into school meals. This provides students with healthier, more sustainable food options.
Strict eligibility thresholds
2 out of 3 struggling Hawai’i households still have to pay for school meals.
Missed school meal applications
34% of students nationally who were denied free or reduced-price meals were actually eligible to receive them.
Effects on teachers
The impact of hungry students is not limited to children and parents. Schools are bearing the financial impact as well. In fact, many teachers have reported using money from their own paychecks to keep a supply of snacks on hand for when students come to school hungry.
Estimated Costs
With projected participation rates, UFSM would cost ~$26 million, which is only 1.2% of Hawaiʻi DOE’s annual budget.
But education advocates said the Legislature did little to address problems such as school bus driver shortages, fire safety and the need for more preschool teachers.