WASHINGTON, D.C. (WKBN) – Senator Bob Casey introduced a bill that would expand free school lunches to students raised by grandparents or other relatives.
The Caregivers Access and Responsible Expansion Act of 2019 or the CARE for Kids Act would provide financial relief to the millions of caregivers who have taken on large responsibility, as well as add more nutritional support for children in their care.
“Far too many children across Pennsylvania and the nation have unstable living situations, many of whom are displaced due to the opioid epidemic. During this tumultuous time, these children should not have to worry when or where they will receive their next meal,” said Senator Casey. “The CARE for Kids Act provides assurance that these children can maintain access to nutritious foods through school meal programs. This legislation also eases the financial burden for the selfless caregivers, often grandparents or other relatives, who have taken on the responsibility of caring for these children.”
The CARE for Kids Act of 2019 aims to build on the existing school meal eligibility for children who already qualify for free lunches, ensuring that children taken out of foster care and put into informal living arrangements are not left behind.
More than 2.6 million children in the U.S. are being raised by grandparents and other relatives.
For more information on, visit Casey’s Website.
