ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — New York State will be covering school meals for students, according to a new initiative.
This new program is part of Governor Hochul’s 2025 State of the State, which will ensure that over 2.7 million students will receive free breakfast and lunches at school and address food insecurity.
The program, according to NYS, is expected to save families around $165 a month on groceries.
Many experts and advocates have said providing free school lunches for students could lead to their overall academic improvement, among other things.
Nearly one in six New York children faces food insecurity, and this critical initiative to provide universal free meals for all students — regardless of their ZIP code or family income — will reduce food anxiety, improve mental and physical health, and support students’ ability to thrive,” NYSUT President Melinda Person said in a statement. “Every child, no matter their circumstances, deserves the nutrition they need to grow and learn.”
Some districts in the Rochester area have ways for students to receive free lunches during the school year. Many of these districts were able to do this through the Community Eligibility Provision.
East Rochester asks families to fill out an application form, Gates-Chili encourages families to sign the Income Eligibility Form, RCSD works with the city and organizations to ensure free lunches, and all students in Greece are able to receive these free meals regardless of income.
