A bill has been introduced in the House that proposes universal free school breakfast and lunch in Rhode Island.
South Kingstown state Representative Teresa Tanzi says the need for the bill is quite simple. If a child is hungry- the child can't learn. The State Rep has been working with the Jonnycake Center- which provides services to those in need throughout the state.
“When we talk about educational outcomes, we focus on testing, teacher recruitment, and school buildings,” said Kate Brewster of the Jonnycake Center for Hope. “All of that is important, but none of it matters if kids are hungry. Kids who don’t get regular nutritious meals can’t concentrate as well and just aren’t on a level playing field. This has lifetime consequences for their education and earnings.”
Tanzi says that has lifetime consequences for heir education and learning.
Hearings for the bill have not been scheduled yet.
(Photo by NICOLAS TUCAT/AFP via Getty Images)
Photo: Getty Images