October 13-17, 2025: Free School Lunch Week

WHEREAS, free breakfast and lunch at school help kids focus, teachers teach, and saves parents hundreds of dollars a year while making sure no child has to learn on an empty stomach; and,

WHEREAS, during the 2025-2026 school year, the State of Michigan through the Michigan School Meals program will provide free breakfast and lunch for all 1.4 million public school students in Michigan to give students the opportunity to focus on learning and a healthier future; and,

WHEREAS, school meals offer students fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and milk while meeting federal nutrition standards limiting fat, calories, and sodium; and,

WHEREAS, there is evidence of continued need for nutrition education and awareness of the value of school nutrition programs; and, 

WHEREAS, school meals supports the health and wellness of all learners by providing nutritious meals and supports Goal 3 of Michigan’s Strategic Education Plan; and,

WHEREAS school meals support Michigan agriculture because 76% of schools serve local food; and,

WHEREAS, during School Lunch Week, we also honor the National School Lunch Program which has served our nation admirably for 79 years through advanced practices and nutrition education, and has remained dedicated to children’s health and well-being;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 13-17, 2025, as Free School Lunch Week in Michigan.