These 7 States Offer Free Breakfast and Lunch to K-12 Students

Food insecurity is a serious issue that impacts millions of people worldwide, including right here at home. Nearly 34 million Americans lived in food-insecure households in 2021, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). In addition to adults, millions of children are impacted.

Several U.S. states are taking action to ensure children get the food they need. Some states have recently passed laws to enable students to get free meals when school is in session.

Free school meal programs like this can help families keep more money in their bank accounts. Below, we'll share some states offering free breakfast and lunch to K-12 students.

1. California

California was the first state to establish a statewide universal meals program for its students. All public schools, county offices of education, and charter schools are required to provide breakfast and lunch free of charge to any student who requests a meal. This year, California students will continue to receive free meals. With 6 million public school students in the state, this initiative is likely making a significant difference for many families.

2. Colorado

Colorado is another state prioritizing the health and well-being of its children thanks to voters who approved the Healthy School Meals for All ballot measure in November 2022. Public school students will now have the opportunity to be provided with free meals during the school day starting in the 2023-2024 school year.

But unlike some states, schools aren't required to participate. Public schools participating in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs will be reimbursed for meals provided to program-enrolled students who would otherwise pay full price.

3. Maine

In 2021, Maine passed legislation that would provide free meals to all public school students throughout the 2022-2023 school year. Breakfast and lunch are available to all students, regardless of their household income. The state has made this a permanent policy, so free meals will remain available to students throughout the 2023-2024 school year.

4. Michigan

Students in Michigan will qualify for free school meals during the 2023-2024 school year. On July 20, 2023, Governor Whitmer signed the state education budget for the 2024 fiscal year into law. $160 million was allocated to provide all 1.4 million public school students free breakfast and lunch through the Michigan School Meals Program. Schools will be reimbursed for meals served to students who don't qualify for free or reduced-priced meals.

5. Minnesota

On March 17, 2023, Governor Walz signed the Free School Meals bill into law. Students in the state will be eligible to receive free meals at school during the 2023-2024 school year. The program will provide reimbursement for meals served to students who don't qualify for free or reduced-price meals. However, to participate in the Free School Meals program, schools must participate in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs.

6. New Mexico

New Mexico joins the list of states that will provide free meals to students during the 2023-2024 school year. The Healthy Hunger-Free Students Bill of Rights Act will ensure that all K-12 students in the state have access to free breakfast and lunch. About $30 million will be used to cover this initiative yearly. The legislation also includes an incentive program to encourage schools to serve local, high-quality products.

7. Vermont

Vermont began offering free meals to all public school students during the pandemic. In June 2023, the Universal School Meals bill became law, making the policy permanent. Through this legislation, independent schools can also opt into the program to provide free meals to students who attend on public tuition.

Free school meals are a win for kids and families

Many Americans are struggling to afford rising living costs. Free meal programs like this are a win for families because they help ensure that children receive the nutrition they need to thrive and can also help trim grocery spending during the school year. For additional financial tips, check out these free personal finance resources.