WORCESTER—Worcester Public Schools and Abby Kelley Foster Charter School are among 16 districts across Massachusetts receiving grants to upgrade their school meal programs, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced this week.
The funding — part of a $220,600 federally funded initiative — will help schools purchase new kitchen equipment aimed at improving the quality, safety and appeal of breakfasts and lunches served through the National School Lunch and Breakfast programs.
Worcester Public Schools will receive $7,929, while Abby Kelley Foster Charter School was awarded $18,322.
Districts can use the funds to buy items such as refrigerators, freezers, steamers and convection ovens, which allow for more diverse and nutritious menu options. The grant is designed to help schools better store fresh fruits and vegetables and expand healthy meal offerings for students.
“Massachusetts is committed to supporting school meals and local school districts,” Governor Maura Healey said in the announcement. “We all know the importance of providing healthy meals to our young people.”
The program builds on the state’s broader push to address student wellbeing. With the signing of the FY24 state budget, Massachusetts became the eighth state to offer universal free school meals permanently. All students are eligible for one free breakfast and lunch per school day, supported by a mix of state and federal funding.
Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll said the grants are part of “building the capacity of schools to offer a wider variety of healthy meal choices” and modernize kitchen operations.
The funding was distributed through the School Nutrition Equipment Assistance for Schools program.
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