FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JEFFERSON CITY, MO - The Missouri National Education Association (MNEA), a union of public school educators dedicated to advocating for students, educators, and neighborhood public schools is deeply disappointed by the recent decision of the state of Missouri to decline millions in federal food aid for low-income children.
The state's decision not to participate in the federal Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer (P-EBT) program, which would have provided $120 in food benefits to each eligible child, is a disheartening setback for our students and their families. The decision to forgo this crucial aid, citing administrative hurdles, will profoundly impact the 356,000 students who qualified for free or reduced lunch in the 2021-2022 school year.
MNEA President Phill Murray said, "Our mission as educators extends beyond the classroom. We are committed to our students' overall well-being, including their nutritional needs. This decision to turn down federal aid that directly benefits Missouri children is a step in the wrong direction."
The MNEA believes that no child should have to worry about where their next meal will come from, especially during these challenging times. The P-EBT program was designed to alleviate some of the burdens faced by families struggling to put food on the table.
"We understand the challenges of administering such programs," Murray continued. "However, we believe that these obstacles can and should be overcome for the benefit of our students. We urge the state to reconsider this decision and prioritize our children's needs."
The MNEA remains committed to advocating for the health and well-being of our students. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that Missouri students receive the support they need to thrive inside and outside the classroom.
About the Missouri National Education Association
The 32,000-member Missouri National Education Association is a union of educators dedicated to advocating for children, educators, and public education. We believe every child deserves a quality education and work tirelessly to ensure our schools have the resources they need to help every student succeed. Missouri NEA represents teachers, education support professionals, college faculty, retired teachers, and students studying to be teachers in school districts and on college campuses throughout the state. It is the Missouri affiliate of the 3-million-member NEA.