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Every morning, thousands of kids in Spokane County arrive at school hungry, not by choice, but because their families are struggling. Hunger doesn’t just cause discomfort; it directly impacts a child’s ability to focus, learn, and reach their full potential. What if we could eliminate this barrier entirely?
For local businesses, a strong future workforce starts with healthy, well-prepared students. That’s why Greater Spokane Inc. (GSI) is backing Senate Bill 5352, a critical piece of legislation that would provide free breakfast and lunch for all K-12 students in Washington state, without red tape or stigma. This isn’t just about feeding kids; it’s about fueling success, strengthening our economy, and investing in the next generation of leaders.
As policymakers in Olympia continue to deliberate on Senate Bill 5352, Greater Spokane Inc. (GSI) has officially endorsed the measure which would provide free breakfast and lunch to all K-12 students across Washington state. The bill would reduce food insecurity, remove barriers that hinder workforce development, and eliminate much of the administrative overhead currently paid to provide meals.
Why Free School Meals Matter
Hunger continues to be a significant challenge for students in Washington, directly affecting their academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being. Research consistently shows that students with reliable access to nutritious meals attend school more regularly, achieve better academic outcomes, and exhibit fewer behavioral issues.
Senate Bill 5352, sponsored by Sen. Marcus Riccelli, would ensure that every student, no matter their family’s financial situation, has access to the meals they need to thrive in school.
The Link Between Nutrition and Workforce Development
This bill extends beyond education—it represents a strategic investment in the region’s future workforce and economic growth.
Eliminating the bureaucratic overhead of means-testing students, charging for meals, and attempting to collect delinquent accounts means significant savings on administration for our schools, cutting through red tape and allowing schools to focus on what matters.
Breaking Down Barriers: No Red Tape, No Stigma
“Ensuring every child has access to nutritious meals is not just about health and well-being; it’s about strengthening our workforce pipeline,” said Alisha Benson, CEO of Greater Spokane Inc. “SB 5352 is a necessary step toward removing obstacles that prevent students from reaching their full potential.”
Erin Vincent, Vice President for Education and Talent at GSI, reinforced this perspective: “No child should have to worry about hunger while trying to learn. Providing free meals to all K-12 students creates a more equitable and supportive educational environment, setting students up for long-term success.”
How SB 5352 Supports Families and the Economy
Beyond academic performance, the initiative will have a direct impact on the local economy: When families don’t have to worry about affording school meals, they can put those dollars back into the local economy, strengthening businesses and communities.
GSI’s Commitment to Regional Prosperity
GSI is urging lawmakers to pass SB 5352 in the current legislative session. SB 5352 aligns with broader initiatives to enhance regional prosperity by equipping students with the fundamental resources they need to succeed academically and professionally.
How You Can Support SB 5352
GSI encourages local business leaders, policymakers, and community members to voice their support for this critical legislation. For more details on how to participate in advocacy efforts, contact Jake Mayson, Public Policy Director at GSI.
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