Governor Hochul Announces Free School Meals for All New York Students

Governor Kathy Hochul announced a groundbreaking initiative to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students across New York State. This historic move, unveiled as part of her upcoming 2025 State of the State address in Albany, aims to combat food insecurity and support over 2.7 million students. By covering the cost of meals for every student, regardless of income, the program will alleviate financial burdens on families and promote healthier educational environments.

The initiative, announced on Friday, January 10th, estimated to save families $165 per child each month, builds on the success of previous food programs in New York. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of nutrition for academic success, stating, “Good food in the lunchroom creates good grades in the classroom.” The plan, which expands eligibility to an additional 300,000 students, will not only improve students’ health and focus but also reduce administrative burdens on schools by eliminating the need for income-based meal applications.

This program follows the $180 million allocated in the FY 2025 budget to incentivize schools’ participation in the federal Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). The new initiative goes further by ensuring universal access to meals in all schools, even those not enrolled in CEP. Supporters of the plan, including educators and advocacy groups, have praised the Governor’s leadership in addressing child hunger and reducing the stigma associated with free meal programs.

Numerous education and community leaders voiced their approval. NYSUT President Melinda Person highlighted the importance of reducing food insecurity for students, saying, “Every day in our schools, educators see hungry children who would likely qualify for existing free meal programs, but fall through the cracks due to stigma or bureaucracy. 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. Every child, no matter their circumstances, deserves the nutrition they need to grow and learn.” The New York State School Boards Association lauded the initiative for its potential to improve student outcomes. The School Nutrition Association and other advocacy groups emphasized that access to healthy meals is critical for students’ academic performance and overall well-being.

Beyond immediate benefits, the initiative aligns with existing programs aimed at promoting local agriculture and nutrition. Initiatives such as the Farm-to-School Program and the Nourish New York Initiative will complement the universal school meals program by integrating locally sourced food into school menus. These programs support New York farmers while ensuring students receive fresh, nutritious meals.

Governor Hochul’s commitment to fighting hunger extends beyond schools, with state-backed programs such as WIC, the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program, and FreshConnect, which increase access to healthy food for vulnerable populations. The governor’s comprehensive approach underscores her administration’s dedication to building a healthier, more equitable New York.