Universal Breakfast Programs in Public Schools

Abstract

The School Breakfast Program allows schools to provide breakfast to students at free and reduced costs in an attempt to provide nutritious meals for low-income students. Nationwide, during the 2006-2007 school year, the School Breakfast Program served less than half of the low-income students eligible for free or reduced-price meals. Universal Breakfast Programs that provide free meals to all students, regardless of income, are a policy alternative that will reach more students and provide them with several academic and health benefits.