HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0061.003 2024-2026TESTIMONY TO THE HAWAI'I COUNTY COUNCIL.
Re: Resolution 42-25 Universal Free School Meals
Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Osa Tui, Jr., President - Hawai'i State Teachers Association
Aloha Chair Inaba, Vice Chair Onishi and members of the Council,
The Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA) strongly supports Resolution 42-25, which
urges the State of Hawai'i to implement a universal free school meals program. This resolution
aligns with HSTA's position that access to nutritious and healthy meals is crucial for students'
health, academic performance, and overall well-being.
The resolution highlights the alarming rate of food insecurity for the county of Hawai'i, with 40%
of households struggling to provide nutritious meals. Among households with children, nearly
10% reported that their children had to skip meals due to financial constraints. These statistics
emphasize the urgent need to address food insecurity among our public school students.
Currently, approximately 70,000 families in Hawai'i earn too much to qualify for free or reduced -
cost meals but not enough to afford the rising cost of food. This "gap" population often faces
difficult choices between paying for basic necessities and providing adequate meals for their
children. A universal free school meals program would ensure that all students, regardless of
their socioeconomic background, have access to the nourishment they need to thrive in school.
Studies have shown that universal free school meal programs lead to improved test scores,
better attendance, and reduced tardiness. These programs also benefit local farmers and food
producers by prioritizing local sourcing and regional procurement.
The estimated annual cost of $25-$30 million to provide free school meals statewide represents
just over 1 % of the Department of Education's budget. This is a small investment that would
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yield significant returns in terms of student health, academic achievement, and overall well-
being.
We urge the Hawaii County Council to support Resolution 42-25and work with the State to
implement a universal free school meals program that will benefit all public school students in