HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0061.005 2024-2026Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Sunday, January 19, 2025 1:12 PM
Hope Pualani McKeen
Council Testimony
RE: Resolution 42-25
From: Hope Pualani McKeen
Sent: Sunday, January 19, 2025 9:41 AM
Subject: Resolution 42-25
Aloha Chair Inaba, Vice Chair Onishi, and members of the council,
I am a Hawaii State Teacher and strongly support this resolution (42-25) urging the State of Hawaii to
implement a Universal Free School Meals Program.
This program will have a profound and positive impact on our keiki by:
• Addressing Food Insecurity:
o Food insecurity is a significant challenge facing many of our students, hindering their ability to
focus and learn effectively.
o A universal program ensures all students have access to nutritious meals, regardless of their
family's financial situation, eliminating the stigma associated with free or reduced -price lunch
programs.
• Promoting Nutritional Equity:
o By providing all students with access to healthy, balanced meals, we can combat diet -related
health issues like childhood obesity and improve overall student health and well-being.
o This program will contribute to a more equitable and just education system where all students
have the opportunity to thrive.
• Supporting Local Agriculture:
o Prioritizing the procurement of locally grown and produced foods will strengthen our local food
systems, support our farmers and ranchers, and boost our rural economies.
o This will create a more sustainable and resilient food system for Hawaii.
• Enhancing Student Success: �1I
o Studies have shown that students who have access to nutritious meals perform better
academically.
o By providing all students with the fuel they need to learn, we are investing in their future
success.
This resolution is a critical step towards ensuring that all of our keiki have the opportunity to reach their full
potential. I urge this committee to support this resolution and move it forward.
Na'u
Hope Pualani McKeen
Na `u rao
Hoye Pualani M6Keen
Lili `u-"never cease to act because you fear you naay fail"
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