The Nutrition Policy Institute reported on Apr. 17 that California’s School Meals for All (SMFA) program is providing significant financial relief to families across income levels, according to a survey of 842 public school parents conducted in 2023.
The findings highlight the impact of universal school meals in easing household budgets at a time when food costs are high. Nearly four out of five parents said the SMFA program saves their family money, and more than half expressed concern about potential financial hardship if the program were discontinued.
Survey results showed that 79% of all parents agreed school meals save their family money, with the highest rate among reduced-price eligible families at 82%. Among families eligible for free meals, 77% reported savings, while even non-eligible families saw benefits at a rate of 78%. One parent from Placer County said, “It does save a significant amount of money for our household because we have two kids…it used to be $5 a day and so it’s $10 a day for [two] kids, so that does cut a lot of costs for food…especially with grocery bills are so much higher too.”
When asked about the possibility of SMFA ending, 55% said their finances would be negatively affected. This included concerns from near-eligible families—those just above federal eligibility thresholds—with 57% anticipating harm. Even among higher-income households not typically qualifying for assistance, over one-third foresaw difficulties if universal meals were discontinued. A Santa Barbara County parent stated: “I don’t know if they’re going to keep free lunch for everybody… Sometimes even the working class… we have to pick up another job just to make ends meet.”
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A Los Angeles County parent summarized broader concerns: “…the free meals, I think it’s a good thing because a lot of people can’t afford it. Food is expensive right now… So we do depend on the school’s lunches as well.”