(Southern Tier, NY) — As National School Lunch Week (October 13–17) is celebrated across the country, Senator Lea Webb marked a major milestone here in New York: the launch of universal free school meals for all students.

This fall, 2.7 million students statewide will have access to breakfast and lunch every school day. Thanks to funding for universal meals included in the state budget earlier this year, no family will have to worry about the cost of meals at school.

“I’m honored to celebrate National School Lunch Week by recognizing the launch of universal free school meals in New York,” said Senator Webb. “Access to healthy, nutritious meals should never be a barrier for our students. I’m proud that New York is now the ninth state to provide universal free school meals. This is a meaningful step toward equity and supporting the well-being of students and families across the state.”

Universal meals also support local economies, bring resources into schools, and make cafeteria operations more efficient. Families are still encouraged to submit their household income information, which helps schools secure additional funding and benefits.

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