Oklahoma Schools Expand Free Meal Programs for Holidays

Schools Step Up as Holiday Costs Rise

With grocery prices still high and food assistance reduced, many Oklahoma students depend on free or reduced-price school meals more than ever. State officials say nearly two-thirds of Oklahoma public school students qualify for meal assistance through the National School Lunch Program.

To help during school breaks, districts across the state continue to work with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma to provide food for children and families in need. These programs distribute meal boxes, shelf-stable groceries, and fresh produce before holidays when cafeterias are closed.

According to the Regional Food Bank, its Food for Kids and School Pantry programs now reach students in 77 counties, serving hundreds of districts statewide. Some schools also provide weekend backpacks filled with easy-to-prepare items that carry students through long weekends and breaks.

Food Banks Fill the Gap During Breaks

The Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma reports increased demand as families face higher grocery costs. The organization partners with schools in eastern and southeastern Oklahoma to distribute “holiday food boxes” filled with canned goods, cereal, and shelf-stable milk.

Hunger Free Oklahoma says these partnerships are essential in a state where one in five children faces food insecurity. While schools close for Thanksgiving and winter break, food banks and local volunteers are working to keep that number from growing.

Together, Oklahoma schools and community food programs aim to ensure that no child misses a meal — even when class isn’t in session.

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