WILMINGTON – Governor Carney signed House Bill 125, which expands access to free breakfast and lunch for students who are eligible for reduced-price meals under the federal School Breakfast Program and National School Lunch Program on Tuesday, July 23.
The Delaware Department of Education reports that around 2,500 students statewide will now receive free breakfast and lunch. The bill, which will take effect in the 2024-2025 school year, will cost the state approximately $242,000 annually.
“Foundationally, there’s nothing more important than making sure our young children can perform and can learn. The future of our state depends on it,” Governor John Carney said. “To set our students up for that success, we have to make sure they are well fed and have good nutrition. I want to thank Representative Moore, Senator Tizzy Lockman, and all those who supported this bill to help make that possible.”
The bill’s sponsor, State Rep. Sherae’a Moore (D-Middletown) said, “As a teacher, I saw firsthand that food insecurity affects not only the body but also the mind. We simply cannot expect our students to perform at their best when they are not properly fueled. With the signing of HB 125, we have taken an important step toward supporting our most vulnerable learners by providing access to healthy, nutritious meals. I want to thank all the advocates and community members whose efforts and hard work helped to make this day possible. Together, we are easing the worry of hunger, allowing students to focus on their education and reach their full potential.”
“By eliminating the reduced price meal fee for students, Delaware is increasing access to nutritious meals for families in need,” Delaware Department of Education Nutrition Director Aimee Beam said. “This change helps ensure all children are given a chance to meet their daily nutrition goals as well as focus on academics – not hunger – throughout the school day.”
