School districts report a significant increase in the number of students needing reduced and free lunches. A report by the School Nutrition Association finds nearly 80 percent of school districts have seen an increase in free meals served, 65 percent saw an increase in reduced price meals, and more than 50 percent said students are charging their meals more. While some see this is as a discouraging sign of the times, some health professionals say there is a bright side. School meals must meet federal dietary guidelines, therefore these students are getting at least one healthy meal a day.
