School districts plead for universal lunch amid budget talks

Schools districts plead for universal lunch amid budget talks

Many of Ohio's K-12 students are going hungry. After being turned away due to debt, some stop coming to the lunch room altogether. Universal school lunch and breakfast is supported by a majority of Ohioans, and advocates are calling on lawmakers to act.

Schools districts plead for universal lunch amid budget talks

Daryn Guarino had to tell a six-year-old girl she couldn’t eat lunch.

School districts plead for universal lunch amid budget talks

At Athens County’s Alexander Local School District, Guarino spends his days creating recipes, building menus and serving food to the students.

With More Ohio Students Being Denied Meals Because of School Lunch Debt, School Districts Plead for Universal Lunch

87% of parents say meals should be provided regardless of the student’s ability to pay