People urge Alabama lawmakers to continue free breakfasts for public school students
People from across the state gathered at the Alabama State House to urge legislators to continue to support free breakfast for public school students.
According to Alabama Arise Action members, access to no-cost school meals in Alabama has nearly doubled since 2019, and reading and math scores have improved significantly during that time.
Last year, the Legislature appropriated $7.3 million dollars to expand access to no-cost school breakfasts at more public schools. More than 190,000 children have benefited from the meals. Alabama Arise members urged lawmakers to allocate $14 million in next year’s education budget for breakfasts.
“We know legislators want to hear from their constituents, so we have people here from every county, from all corners of the state. They need to hear it directly from those who are impacted. We know that when we speak together we are stronger,” Alabama Arise Executive Director Robyn Hyden said.
Advocates of the program say it also supports Alabama farmers and reduces administrative costs for schools.
