Austin ISD Expands Free Meal Access for Students in Low-Income Areas

The Austin Independent School District will provide free breakfast and lunch to all students at 76 campuses during the 2025–26 school year, thanks to federal and state funding. This initiative is enabled by the Community Eligibility Provision, allowing schools in low-income areas to serve meals without charge. AISD officials expressed pride in supporting students, especially those who qualify for reduced-price meals, ensuring they can access nutritious food at no cost. The district worked closely with local organizations to identify eligible children, emphasizing a commitment to eliminating food insecurity. Research shows that students with reliable access to meals perform better academically and attend school more often.

The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 facilitated the adoption of the CEP program, simplifying meal access for students and reducing social stigma. AISD aims to expand free meal access as part of a broader strategy to promote student health and success. A comprehensive list of participating sites is available on the AISD website.