Take Action To Help Prevent Child Hunger in Ohio 

Take Action To Help Prevent Child Hunger in Ohio by Supporting the Bipartisan State Bill 109 (SB 109)

This bill needs to be included in the Senate Finance Committee’s budget. Introduced by Senators Louis Blessing and Kent Smith, SB 109 requires each public and non-public school that participates in the National School Breakfast and Lunch Programs to provide free school breakfast and lunch to each student. Free lunches would help alleviate the stigma associated with poor students receiving them, assist families near poverty, and support neglected children in middle- and upper-class families. Eight states have passed policies for free Healthy School Meals for all. Call or Email committee members today to advocate for the passage of Senate Bill 109 (SB 109). Contact information and a sample script are provided below.

Members of the Ohio Senate Finance Committee:

 Here is a sample script for the Finance Committee members:

I urge you to advocate for the passage of Senate Bill 109 (SB 109). This legislation would provide free breakfast and lunch to all students in Ohio’s public and chartered nonpublic schools, ensuring that no child goes hungry during the school day.

Access to nutritious meals is essential for student success. Studies consistently show that well-fed children perform better in school, have improved concentration, and experience fewer behavioral challenges. By eliminating meal costs for families, SB 109 would reduce financial stress, remove stigma, and create a more equitable learning environment for all students. Investing in universal school meals is a proactive measure that benefits public health, academic achievement, and economic stability for families across Ohio. No child should have to worry about their next meal, especially while trying to focus on learning! I urge you to support SB 109 and help it pass quickly. Thank you.