During a legislative hearing at the State Capitol on Tuesday a bill was introduced that would provide a free breakfast or lunch to all K-12 students in Nebraska regardless of income. The state would reimburse schools for the cost of student meals.
Food Bank of Lincoln President and CEO Michaella Kumke spoke in favor of the Hunger-Free Schools Act. “Access to no cost meals for all students reduces stigma among students and families, it supports increased focus, aids teachers and administrators and nourishes children and nurtures learning.”
She says according to a report from Feeding America there are nearly 15,000 food insecure children in southeast Nebraska. Across the state she says one in every seven children ages 18 and younger lack consistent and reliable access to enough food to live and active lifestyle.
“The number of food insecure children who live in southeast Nebraska alone would be similar to a sellout at Pinnacle Bank Arena,” Kumke says. She urged lawmakers to pass the legislation and help fill children’s stomachs and their minds.
Advocates like Kumke say the bill would help families of all income levels who are struggling to put food on the table. Food insecurity and hunger have been directly linked to poor academic performance.