Chicago Public Schools (CPS) will offer free meals to all students starting October 6, regardless of their family’s income. The district made the announcement on Tuesday, September 28, saying that the move is aimed at ensuring that all students have access to nutritious meals, especially during a time of economic uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The free meals will be available at all CPS schools and will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Students can choose from a variety of healthy options, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. CPS will also provide free snacks to students throughout the school day.
The district is partnering with the USDA to provide the free meals. The USDA is providing funding for the program through the Seamless Summer Option, which allows schools to offer free meals to all students during the summer months. CPS is extending the program to the entire school year.
CPS CEO Janice Jackson said that the free meals program is an important step in ensuring that all students have access to the nutrition they need to succeed in school.
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