Des the Government Shut-Down Affect School Meals?

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Does the Government Shut-Down Affect School Meals?

According to Mandy Monacao, MS, RD, School Meal Manager at Children’s Hunger Alliance, school meals should not be directly affected by the government shut-down. However, there is definitely an indirect affect that could face school meal programs very soon should the government shut-down continue long-term.

The funding provided to schools for students who are eligible for free and reduced lunches comes from the United States Department of Agriculture which is currently shut down because it is part of the government. At the end of each month, schools send a report to the U.S.D.A for a reimbursement check for eligible meals.  Due to the shut-down, schools have not received the reimbursement check for September. According to the U.S.D.A, there is enough funds to cover school meals throughout October, but not much more. School officials are preparing contingency plans in case the shut-down continues.

Many school foodservice directors plan to use funds from any extra revenue or a general savings that may be available, but in most schools there is not much, if any, extra monies to fall back on.

School Foodservice Directors, teachers, and administrators are all committed to continuing to make sure their children are fed. Many children rely on the school for meals they otherwise are not able to afford at home. A discontinuation of the program that may require these low-income families to pay may result in some students going hungry. If children spend the school day hungry, they are less likely to perform well in the classroom and more likely to become unruly.

It is reassuring to know that school officials are so dedicated to their students and passionate about feeding the students and keeping that a top priority. Even if our government cannot find a way to keep programs running and feed our children, we can be confident our School Foodservice Directors will.


Wiedemann, Katie. "Government Shutdown Could Impact School Lunch Programs." KCRG-TV9. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2013. <http://www.kcrg.com/news/local/Government-Shutdown-Could-Impact-School-Lunch-Programs-226975531.html>.

Milsop, Katherine. "Government Shutdown May Impact School Lunch Program in Elmwood Park." Community News (Elmwood Park Edition). N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2013. <http://www.northjersey.com/news/226181751_Government_shutdown_may_impact_school_lunch_program_in_Elmwood_Park.html>.


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