School officials: Universal free lunch lessens stigma around food insecurity
As Massachusetts becomes the eighth state in the country to make free meals permanently available to all students, local school districts hope for ...
As Massachusetts becomes the eighth state in the country to make free meals permanently available to all students, local school districts hope for full participation among students. The statewide program benefits students not only with hunger but with the stigma attached to getting free meals as well, said Laura Amedeo, the supervisor of school cafeterias in West Springfield. 'There are still many families who struggle with food insecurity. However, students can now enjoy nutritious meals without worrying about debt or feeling ashamed for receiving reduced or free meals,' said Amedeo.