A healthy diet is critical for children’s growth and development, and school meals are often one of the most consistent sources of nutrition for many young people. Universal free school meals allow schools to provide balanced, nutritious options, ensuring that all students receive a healthy meal each day. When children have access to quality food at school, they are less likely to develop poor eating habits, such as relying on unhealthy snacks or fast food. This approach can have long-term health benefits, including a reduction in obesity rates and other diet-related health issues like diabetes. In addition, by providing free meals to all students, schools can address the root causes of food insecurity, such as poverty and limited access to healthy food. This safety net reduces the stigma often associated with free meal programs, which can prevent children from feeling singled out or ashamed for needing assistance.
In order to keep provide a more productive, successful future for Ohio children it is important that funding is provided for this important resource for our children.
- Dr. Kimberley Freeman is the Director of Health Promotion at Public Health – Dayton & Montgomery County, and Board Member of the Dayton Chapter of the American Heart Association.
Thank you Congress for passing the Social Security Fairness Act! The Social Security Fairness Act is a huge step in ensuring fairness for millions of public servants, including teachers, firefighters, bus drivers, paraprofessionals, and police officers. By repealing the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), this legislation will increase Social Security benefits for those who have dedicated their careers to serving others- and also worked to earn social security credits. This change means a monthly increase in retirement benefits and more financial peace of mind. This victory would not have been possible without the tireless advocacy of individuals and organizations who fought for change. Your voices and letters to elected officials, such as Rep. Turner, Sen. Brown, and Sen. J.D. Vance, have been instrumental in passing this legislation! As we await President Biden’s signature to finalize this act, we must take a moment to celebrate and reflect on what advocacy and persistence can achieve. This is not just a policy win — it’s a win for fairness to our retirees. The House approved the bill with a 327-75 vote, followed by the Senate’s 76-20 approval.
- Kenneth Henning, Clayton City Council Member