In the FY2026 Final Enacted Budget, New York has made a historic investment and commitment to New York children, families, and schools by enacting statewide universal free school meals, starting in the 2025-2026 school year.
This investment means 2.7 million New York students will have access to free breakfast and lunch every school day. As the ninth state to enact a universal school meals policy, New York has sent a strong message: Nothing is more important than safeguarding kids from hunger and ensuring they are well-fed and able to thrive.
This critical policy supports learning, improves children’s mental and physical health, and provides meaningful financial relief for New York families. We applaud Governor Kathy Hochul and Senate and Assembly leaders for prioritizing Healthy School Meals for NY Kids. We are also deeply grateful to our legislative champions, especially prime sponsors Senator Michelle Hinchey and Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas, for their unwavering support of universal school meals.
About the Healthy School Meals for All Coalition
The Healthy School Meals for All New York Kids Coalition is a coalition of more than 350 nonprofits, parent and teacher groups, labor unions, education associations, and anti-hunger organizations led by Hunger Solutions New York and Community Food Advocates.
