Feed Our Kids Act of 2026

A new federal bill aimed at expanding school feeding programs for children has been referred to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. The legislation, introduced by Rep. James P. McGovern (D-MA), seeks to permanently boost federal reimbursements for school breakfasts and lunches while enhancing nutrition standards, access to local foods, and services like afterschool snacks. It addresses rising food costs and funding shortfalls straining school meal programs nationwide, according to Congress.

The Healthy Meals Help Kids Learn Act builds on prior efforts like the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, which improved reimbursements for compliant school meals. Referred to the committee chaired by Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), the bill falls under its jurisdiction over child nutrition and elementary education initiatives. Supporters, including the Food Research & Action Center, praise it for investing in school food professionals and combating food insecurity amid economic pressures.

For Milwaukee families, this matters as thousands of students rely on school meals amid high local poverty rates and inflation-driven grocery costs, per Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Better-funded programs could ensure healthier eating, sharper focus in class, and less hunger for kids in districts like Milwaukee Public Schools, where free and reduced-price meals serve over 70% of students.

The bill now awaits committee review and potential hearings, with advocates urging swift action before the next Child Nutrition Act reauthorization deadline.