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Millions of U.S. children could lose free school meals this fall due to SNAP changes, experts say
CBS News • • nation
Key Points:
- Changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) under the Republicans' "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" have led to 4.5 million people, including 1.5 million children, losing food stamps, which affects their eligibility for free school meals.
- Approximately 18.3 million U.S. students could lose access to free school meals due to decreased SNAP enrollment, with families potentially facing an additional $2,200 in food costs per academic year.
- Miami-Dade School District in Florida announced scaling back free meal programs as many schools no longer qualify for the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), with lunches costing $4.20 per child after a 30-day grace period.
- Families losing SNAP benefits may still apply individually for free meals, but the application process is often complicated and burdensome, causing many to miss out on assistance.
- Experts warn that further SNAP funding cuts in 2027 could cause states to withdraw from the program, increasing the risk of children losing access to free meals, which research links to improved academic performance and overall well-being.
