Ohio Schools Expand Free Meal Programs, Boosting Student Access to Healthy Food
Local schools across Ohio are expanding free breakfast and lunch options, leading to a record number of students being served. According to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, nearly 31% of students received school breakfast in the 2022–2023 year — up from 24.4% in 2019–2020.
At least three area districts have broadened access to free meals this school year, with fresh fruits, salads, and updated menus becoming student favorites. Initiatives like the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) are helping schools like Tecumseh, Fairborn, and Beavercreek provide meals to all students at no cost, boosting nutrition and student engagement.
Principals say for some children, these meals are the only dependable source of food they get. Research continues to show that nutritious school meals boost focus and memory, key ingredients for learning success.
Meanwhile, a new bill in the Ohio Legislature, House Bill 97, aims to ensure no student is denied a meal due to inability to pay and would expand access to free meals across more districts.
