Mich. could be 4th state to adopt universal school meals
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Michigan would develop into the fourth state to undertake universal breakfasts and lunches at college beneath a spending plan proposed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The proposal is aimed at encouraging to curb student starvation, enabling them to aim and study, explained Lieutenant Gov. Garlin Gilchrist.
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Source backlink The state of Michigan could soon become the fourth state in the nation to join the Universal School Meal Program, a program that that would provide meals to all students regardless of economic situation.
The program, funded by federal dollars, provides low-income students in participating states with breakfast and lunch at no cost. Students who are enrolled in a school lunch program still receive a free meal regardless of their family’s economic status. Currently, there are three states that have adopted this program – California, Oregon, and New Mexico.
The goal of the Universal School Meal Program is to make sure that all students are getting a proper meal each day, regardless of their socioeconomic status. As of 2019, nearly 1.2 million children in Michigan lived in households with incomes at or below the federal poverty line. This translates into hundreds of thousands of Michigan kids who are often not receiving a proper meal everyday.
In addition to providing students with meals that are more health conscious, more economically disadvantaged families will benefit now that the meal will no longer come out of their pocket. With more time and attention dedicated to learning rather than worrying about basic needs, students will have more of an opportunity to succeed academically.
Although there are many positive aspects to this program, there are also some potential drawbacks. As the program is funded by federal dollars, these funds can be volatile from year to year and may not meet the needs of the students in cases of shortfalls.
In conclusion, the proposed Universal School Meal Program for Michigan is a step in the right direction. By providing all students with a free and nutritious meal, students can focus more on learning and less on the stresses of being underprivileged. With thoughtful planning, it is hoped that this program will be a success and benefit the students of Michigan for years to come.
