The National School Lunch Program: Background, Trends, and Issues, 2024 Edition

The National School Lunch Program: Background, Trends, and Issues, 2024 Edition dives into how one of the nation’s largest food assistance programs has evolved over time. It explores the impact of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 and the COVID-19 pandemic on meal quality, participation, and funding. The report also sheds light on the financial health of school food authorities and highlights the nutritional benefits for millions of students. As the landscape of school nutrition shifts, the program continues to face new challenges and opportunities for growth.