Alabama Arise Action to urge lawmakers to provide free breakfasts in schools

Members of Alabama Arise Action (AAA) will hold a press conference in Montgomery today at 11:45 a.m. to urge lawmakers to pass legislation to provide free breakfasts in schools. 

A press release from AAA stated that breakfasts at schools can improve learning and behavior, and reduce absenteeism, as well as support local farmers. 

"Access to no-cost school meals in Alabama has nearly doubled since 2019, and reading and math scores have improved significantly during that time," the press release said. "The Legislature took an important step forward on child nutrition last year by appropriating $7.3 million to expand access to no-cost school breakfasts for more public schools."

AAA will urge legislators to allocate $14 million from the education budget in 2027 to support providing free breakfasts at all schools in the state.

Scheduled speakers will be AAA Board President Dr. Shakita Brooks Jones, Rep. Barbara Drummond (D-Mobile), and Alabama School Nutrition Association President Cacyce Davis. 

The press conference will be held in Room 200 of the State House in Montgomery.