Students in Michigan Will Get Free Breakfast and Lunch in the Upcoming School Year

Many families struggle to afford food. Michigan is just one state impacted by food insecurity, leaving many families to go without. According to Feeding America, a nonprofit that provides food to more than 40 million people annually, one in nine people in Michigan faces hunger.

The stats are even worse for children. One in eight children in the state faces food insecurity. But a recently signed state law will ensure that more Michigan children get the food they need throughout the school year.

The Michigan School Meals Program begins this school year

On July 20, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the education budget for fiscal year 2024 into law. This allocated $160 million to provide public school students with free breakfast and lunch through the Michigan School Meals Program. All public school students will be eligible to receive two free meals daily through the program.

The Michigan School Meals Program is a state-funded program that will reimburse schools for meals served to students who don't qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Since Michigan has more than 1.4 million public school students, this will help many families.

Now that the budget has been approved and signed into state law, this program will begin at the start of the 2023–2024 school year. All free meals will meet USDA nutrition guidelines. Meals will be served throughout the school year on days when school is in session.

For every district that participates in the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program, pre-kindergarten through grade 12 students will receive one breakfast and one lunch per student, free of charge. The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) encourages all eligible school districts to participate.

While this program is available to all public school students, parents must first fill out paperwork. All families who want to participate in the Michigan School Meals program must complete an Application for Summer EBT and Education Benefits for the Michigan School Meals Program or the Education Benefits form. Families should check with their districts if they have additional questions about the program.

Take advantage of support programs

You're not alone if your family is struggling financially at this time. Many families nationwide find it difficult to afford expenses as everyday costs continue to rise. Support programs like the Michigan School Meals Program are available to help families like yours.

Don't be afraid to utilize support programs to ensure you can feed your family. If you're looking for additional ways to put food on the table, here are more options to consider.

Apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

For households that meet the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) income eligibility requirements, this can be an excellent resource to save money on food expenses. SNAP recipients can use their EBT card to pay for eligible food purchases. If you qualify for this program, it could help to ensure your family is fed.

Visit food banks in your community

Another resource you can utilize is food banks. You can pick up free food to help fill your fridge and pantries. If you're unsure where your closest food bank is, you can search by zip code by using Feeding America's food bank locator.

The cost of food, rent, utilities, and everyday essentials has increased significantly compared to years past. People like you seek tips to keep more money in their checking accounts. Check out our free personal finances resources for additional ways to save money.