Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has introduced legislation that would permanently extend free meal programs in schools.
The New York Democrat says providing food for students has been a big help to them and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic. The United States Department of Agriculture has already said meals will continue to remain free during the 2021-2022 academic year. But Gillibrand believes making the program permanent would help curb childhood hunger, especially in low-income communities.