Schools in Hillsborough County began providing free meals to all #students on September 21st, 2020. Students aged 18 and below were to be served breakfast and lunch at no cost. The program was open to students in all modes of learning. Those learning in person would receive free meals in school cafeterias, while students learning virtually could receive free Grab-and-Go meals at one of the 75 school sites.

Financing the initial program was covered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) at no cost to the district or students. Originally intended to last from May to December, the program was extended until the end of the 2020-2021 school year, including Winter and Spring breaks. Though the program expired before the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year, a similar program called the Community Eligible Provision (CEP) continues to provide free meals to students at 174 of the district's 250 total schools. Students in the other 76 schools can apply to the need-based National School Lunch Program that provides free or reduced-cost meals to low-income families.

Proponents of free school lunches say that the programs have a significant impact on helping to fight hunger and malnutrition in children from low-income families. Improving students' consumption of essential vitamins and minerals will make it possible for their intelligence and brain function to operate at peak efficiency, potentially leading to better performance on tests and improved student behavior. 

Conversely, those in opposition say that free food isn't free. Members of the community pay for it. They believe that while some need assistance, footing the bill for all students, regardless of financial situation, is costly and wasteful. They argue that it is not the responsibility of schools or the government to feed children. It is the responsibility of their families.

The question up for debate: Should #PublicSchools provide #FreeMeals to all #students?