FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 10, 2025
No Kid Hungry New York Director Rachel Sabella issued this statement applauding Governor Hochul’s proposal to provide no-cost, universal school meals for New York students. Earlier this week, Rachel published an op-ed calling on the Governor to take up the fight against child hunger – including by making no-cost breakfast and lunch universal.
“No-cost, universal school meals ensure all our kids are nourished – it’s really that simple. With this plan to provide New York students with no-cost breakfast and lunch, Governor Hochul is taking major strides to end child hunger. At a time when food insecurity is rising and families are struggling to put food on the table, bold proposals like these can help parents make ends meet, move the needle on reducing poverty, and demonstrate how government can do big things. Now, as proposals in Congress and comments from the incoming administration raise fears about cuts to federal programs, it’s critical that New York is ready for what’s to come.
“New York has the power to intervene in the child hunger crisis, but only if we act now. People across the state have been energized by the Governor’s plan to expand the Empire Child Tax Credit and make no-cost school meals universal. Now, we need the Legislature, City leaders, and partners at every level of government to take action. We can’t ever resign ourselves to more kids facing hunger, or more families going without the help they need. Every child in New York deserves three healthy, nutritious meals a day. Let’s make that a reality this year.”
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