The U.S. Department of Agriculture will provide free meals for students for the 2021-22 school year.
The USDA’s national school meal programs long have been a vital source of nutritious meals for students. Families normally need to meet income requirements to qualify for free or reduced breakfasts and lunches.
But as schools closed during the pandemic, the USDA eased restrictions so schools could focus on providing meals while keeping families and staff safe.