All 2.7 million public school students in New York are now guaranteed free breakfast and lunch, thanks to a new Universal School Meals Program that kicked off this week.
Governor Kathy Hochul celebrated the launch Friday during a visit to Manorhaven Elementary School on Long Island, calling the initiative a key part of her affordability agenda.
“No kid should go hungry in the classroom, and no parent should have to stretch their budget to pack a lunch,” Hochul said. “We’re taking that burden off families — no questions asked.”
The program saves families about $165 per child per month in grocery costs, while also improving focus, attendance, and classroom behavior. It covers all schools that participate in the national school lunch and breakfast programs, regardless of income.
How it works
- $340 million in funding was included in the state’s FY26 budget — up $160 million from last year.
- The state will now pay the student share of meal costs for those not already receiving free meals.
- The program expands free meal access to 280,000 additional students.
- All participating schools — public, charter, and nonpublic — must now provide meals at no cost.
A win for health, equity, and learning
Supporters say the program fights food insecurity while reducing stigma in the lunchroom.
“This is one of the greatest public goods we’ve secured for children and families,” said State Senator Michelle Hinchey, who co-sponsored the Universal School Meals Act. “Kids can now focus on learning without shame or hunger.”
Educators agree. Dr. Guarav Passi, superintendent of the Port Washington School District, said the program ensures “every child is nourished and ready to learn.”
The initiative builds on years of advocacy by lawmakers, parents, unions, and hunger relief groups — and positions New York as a national leader in student nutrition.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].