Why School Meals Make a Difference
When we make school breakfast and lunch free for all students, everyone benefits. Students get the fuel they need to be successful in school—but the benefits don’t end there!
TOO MANY HUNGRY KIDS 1 in 5 Ohio children is food-insecure — an unacceptably high rate of hunger
EVERY CORNER OF THE STATE Urban, suburban, and rural — food-insecure children live in every county in Ohio
FUZZY MATH Hungry children have lower math scores and are more likely to repeat a grade
Why School Meals Make a Difference
Better Educational Outcomes
Better Educational Outcomes
Better Educational Outcomes
When students get consistent, nutritious meals, they have more energy, more focus, and more curiosity in the classroom. You can’t learn when you are hungry.
Less Food Stigma
Better Educational Outcomes
Better Educational Outcomes
No one – especially kids! – wants to walk around with a flashing “poor” sign. When all students have equal access to the same meal, students won’t have to choose between sitting lunch out or standing out for their meal choice.
A Level Playing Field
Better Educational Outcomes
A Level Playing Field
When food access varies across families, students don’t start from the same line. Free school meals give students the nourishment they need to give school their best shot.