The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Tuesday that nearly 3,000 districts in high-need areas could soon get partial reimbursement to offer students free breakfasts and lunches at schools.
Schools have the option to join the program, and local or state funds must fill any gap between program costs and federal support, the USDA said. The announcement comes as eight states have enacted universal free school lunches. One other benefit is that it saves administrators time as it makes all students within a school eligible for free meals. USDA leaders say ensuring kids have access to meals at school helps with learning.