U.S. Senator Bob Casey of Pennsylvania wants to address food insecurity among children by expanding access to free school meals. More than 11 million children nationwide are currently experiencing hunger.
Last week, Sen. Casey introduced the School Hunger Elimination Act to improve the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and the School Breakfast Program (SBP). He believes that ensuring access to free school meals is essential to combating hunger among children.
The senator noted that children missing meals or experiencing hunger increases their risk of developing behavioral, mental and social disorders.
It is unacceptable that millions of children in the U.S. are experiencing hunger
In a statement, Sen. Casey said, “It is simply unacceptable that more than 11 million children across the country lack consistent access to enough food to sustain active and healthy lives. When students are hungry in the classroom their ability to concentrate decreases, academic performance declines and behavioral issues surge.”
