Starting this fall, every public school student in New York will receive free breakfast and lunch—no application, income limit, or paperwork required.
The FY 2026 New York State budget includes $340 million to fund universal school meals for all K–12 students. Governor Kathy Hochul said the investment will relieve pressure on families while improving student health and academic performance.
Who qualifies for free school meals?
Every student in New York’s public school system will qualify, regardless of household income. The meals will be available every day, covering both breakfast and lunch.
The policy applies statewide, including New York City, where officials say more than half of students already rely on subsidized meal programs.
Why New York is expanding free school meals
Rising grocery prices and inflation have made it harder for families to afford daily essentials. State officials estimate that providing universal meals could save $1,600 per child each year.
“Parents shouldn’t have to choose between paying rent and making sure their child eats at school,” Hochul said during her budget announcement. “This is one of the best investments we can make in kids and working families.”
Education and health experts also say that free school meals improve student focus, reduce absenteeism, and eliminate stigma for low-income children.
How schools will implement the program
Districts will not need to screen students for eligibility or require paperwork. The funding will be distributed directly to schools based on enrollment.
The New York State Education Department will provide updated implementation guidelines ahead of the 2025–2026 school year. Schools that already offer free meals under federal Community Eligibility Provisions will continue to do so, with state support filling any funding gaps.
Budget context and family savings
The free school meal initiative is part of a broader affordability plan included in New York’s FY 2026 budget. Other key provisions include:
- $2 billion in inflation refund checks for more than 8 million taxpayers
- A tripled child tax credit, offering up to $1,000 per child under age 4
- $1 billion in middle-class income tax cuts
Combined, these programs could save families as much as $5,000 per year.
What comes next
The universal school meals program will launch at the start of the new school year in fall 2025. State officials say no family needs to apply or submit documentation—meals will be automatically available to all students.
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