Sheboygan School District: Free Meals Program Ensures Students Thrive
The Sheboygan Area School District (SASD) is making a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families by continuing its Free Meals Program for the second consecutive year. Through participation in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) of the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program, SASD is able to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students, regardless of their family’s income. This program eliminates the need for families to budget for school meals while ensuring that children receive the nutrition they need to thrive both academically and personally.
The Importance of Free Meals
By providing balanced and nutritious meals twice a day, this initiative plays a vital role in students’ overall development, helping them focus better in class and maintain their energy throughout the day. Last year, the SASD School Nutrition team served over 1.5 million meals, including 531,000 breakfasts, 971,000 lunches, and 56,000 suppers. This incredible effort supports students’ health and well-being while alleviating the financial burden on families, many of whom would otherwise struggle to cover meal costs.
The benefits go beyond the school year. Last summer, the SASD expanded the program to offer over 30,000 meals to students in need, ensuring that even during the summer months, students could access free, nutritious food at various locations throughout the community.
A Win for Families and Students
The Free Meals Program removes the barriers many families face, including the need to submit separate meal applications, and it reduces the stigma sometimes associated with receiving free or reduced-cost meals. It’s a program that allows students to focus entirely on their education, without worrying about whether they’ll have enough to eat.
By feeding students healthy, balanced meals, SASD is ensuring that they have the resources they need to grow, develop, and succeed—both inside and outside the classroom. For families, it’s one less thing to worry about, especially during tough economic times.
Supporting the Future of Sheboygan’s Students
SASD’s commitment to providing these free meals, made possible by the federal CEP program, showcases the district’s dedication to student well-being. The continuation of this program ensures that no student in the district goes without the nutrition they need to perform at their best. This is an important investment in our future, providing every child with the tools to succeed.
This program is a shining example of how your tax dollars directly benefit the children and families of Sheboygan. By supporting initiatives like the Free Meals Program, you are helping to build a healthier, stronger, and more successful community.
For more information about the Free Meals Program, visit the Sheboygan Area School District’s website or contact the SASD School Nutrition Department.
