Kids Are Going Hungry Because They Learn Online

Thousands of students are being denied free or reduced lunch benefits because of outdated policy. Join the campaign to fix this gap in the National School Lunch Program.
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Did You Know...

347,000+

full-time online students qualify for free or reduced lunch benefits, but get nothing

Over 57%

of full-time virtual students would otherwise be eligible for free lunch benefits

80 Years Old

USDA’s outdated rules fail to reflect today’s diverse school options, including virtual learning

The Problem

The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) provides critical nutritional support to millions of children from low-income families. But right now, students who attend full-time virtual public schools are excluded, not because of need, but because of where they learn.

These students would qualify for free or reduced-price meals if they were in a traditional school building. This outdated policy is leaving families behind.
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Learn About This Issue

National Survey Results

A new national survey of more than 1,600 families reveals a near-universal truth among families: 96% of parents support federal action to ensure all public virtual school students can receive free school lunch each day.

The findings point to an immediate need for Congress and the USDA to modernize school meal programs so they work for today’s students, not yesterday’s system.
Review Survey Findings

America’s Hidden Hunger Stories

We hear stories of hunger and struggle every year from hundreds of families in every corner of the country.

About Lunch for Every Learner

Lunch equality shouldn’t depend on a ZIP code, or a login screen. The Lunch for Every Learner campaign is advocating for lunch equality through the National School Lunch Program, ensuring that full-time virtual school students aren’t left behind.

We’re calling on parents, educators, advocates and lawmakers to help us fix this gap.
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Join the Fight for Lunch Equity

Real Families. Real Hunger.

Kendra Mitchel : Virtual School Families Denied Access to the National School Lunch Program

Kendra struggled to provide lunch for her children. This is her story.

"My son eats less in a day because we choose to use online school rather than send him to traditional school where he'll receive a lunch, but have to deal with all the problems and lack of security he feels while there. So we opt to find other ways around it, but it is definitely a struggle at times."

Charity S., Ohio Parent

"With the cost of food continuously on the rise, I have had to sacrifice paying bills to ensure that my children have food. I don't think its fair that just because we chose virtual school for safety reasons that we should be excluded from the same benefits of traditional school families."

Amanda D., Pennsylvania Parent

Nourishing Minds, Bridging Gaps: A Deep Dive Into Student Equity and the School Lunch Program

PSO-PA discusses how important nutrition is for all students.

Ensuring Equality for Online Charter School Students in California

PSO Board Member Dr. Conragan discusses the NSLP in CA,

"We struggle paycheck to paycheck to make sure the kids are fed and that they have everything they need to be successful in school. Even for those of us who are two income households, it’s hard. There are days that I will go without eating so my kids will have the nutrition they need for the day."

Jenny B., Oklahoma Parent

"Our family had to make the decision to have our child with special needs attend virtual school. Although our son excelled academically, not having access to lunch programs put a financial strain on our family. I hope that our country can unite and have a consistent and permanent program in place soon."

Jeanelle W., Florida Parent

Why the National School Lunch Program Must Include Virtual Students

It's time to close the gap, so virtual students are not left behind.

"We have had to decide between keeping our kids safe from bullying and food security. Unfortunately, my children don't have the well balanced meals they would have at a traditional school because we can't afford them. This past year my daughter suffered through going to school in-person just to lighten our food cost each month. We decided to keep her there because of the cost we would endure if she did virtual (even though her grades are better in virtual school. It's been mental health verses physical health which I believe no parent should have to choose between."

Jessica D., Ohio Parent

"I'm a single mom on a fixed income because I receive disability. I do receive SNAP benefits but honestly with the cost of food going up we can't afford a full month of food. A week or two before we receive benefits we run low on food. There are times that I don't eat a full meal, so I can save food for my son. My mother lives with us, but she also only receives social security once a month, and with all the bills and rent we still can't afford all the food we need. It is hard, but as the adult you always put your kid first before anything."

Rosanna, Wisconsin Parent

"My children wanted to try online school because they did not feel safe or comfortable at the local public school. My children and I have been negatively affected by not receiving free lunch. We suffer every month running out of food."

Adena K., Washington Parent

"It's hard for a single mom with two children. Homeschooling is the best option for us except we have no help with breakfast or lunch even though my child qualifies to receive these benefits.   I would help love help for my child to have healthy meals like when she was in a traditional school setting."

Bridgette, South Carolina Parent
Supporting and defending parents’ right to choose an education that suits their child’s needs.


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About Lunch for Every Learner

Lunch equality shouldn’t depend on a ZIP code, or a login screen. The Lunch for Every Learner campaign is advocating for lunch equality through the National School Lunch Program, ensuring that full-time virtual school students aren’t left behind.

We’re calling on parents, educators, advocates and lawmakers to help us fix this gap.
Share on Social