School lunch program struggling to meet demand




U.S.A. Today reports that record numbers of children have applied for free and reduced lunches in America's schools. The increase in enrollment in free lunch programs jumped almost 17% in California, and several states — Arizona, New Jersey, Utah and Vermont — also saw more than 10% growth.

The federal government reimburses schools $2.57 for each free lunch served. But the average food and labor cost for each meal is about $2.92, according to the School Nutrition Association. With the tight economy schools across the nation are struggling to make up the difference.