Universal School Meals

Research proves poor nutrition equals poor learning

In Idaho, 1 in 9 children are hungry

The Universal School Meals Program Act provides funding to ensure access to breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner year-round for daycare and school children. It, thus, prevents kids living in poverty from going hungry.

Why Universal School Meals?

In Idaho, children living in households that receive supplemental food benefits (SNAP, TAFI, and FDPIR) are eligible for low-cost or free school lunches. But not all Idaho schools participate in the School Meals Programs. In addition, the families of these kids often struggle to provide healthy breakfast and dinner options. Research demonstrates that free school meals offer students healthy meal options.

Studies found that inadequate nutrition negatively impacts how well kids perform in school. Hungry children have poorer thinking skills, more behavior problems, lower energy levels, and a higher risk for health issues. Research also shows that kids with diets high in saturated fats (think quick and easy to prepare processed foods) impair learning and memory. Other studies link good nutrition with a lower risk for obesity, diabetes, and other chronic health conditions among children.

Thus, food insecurity and poor nutrition prevent kids in poor Idaho households from reaching their full potential. The Universal Meals Program Act resolves this issue.

Our Advocacy Asks

IHRTF believes all Idaho kids deserve nutritious meals that help them be healthy and do their best in school. The current School Meals Programs are inadequate. Idaho children living in poverty are hungry. Passage of universal school meals legislation is required to resolve this issue.