During a recent government meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the challenges faced by families in accessing essential resources for their children, particularly in education and nutrition.

Jua, an elder from the Hmong community, highlighted the financial burdens of raising children in the U.S., emphasizing the high costs of education, housing, and food. She called for collective support from decision-makers to ensure that children can succeed academically and have access to necessary resources.

Bridal, co-executive director of Freedom Inc. and a parent, shared a poignant story about the impact of school lunch policies on children's health and well-being. She pointed out that school meals are crucial in combating obesity and related health issues prevalent in Black and Southeast Asian communities. Bridal recounted a personal experience where her child was denied lunch due to a minor negative balance, leading to a serious health incident during sports practice.

She urged the school board to abolish school lunch debt and provide free meals for all students, stressing that no child should have to worry about hunger during the school day. Bridal emphasized the shared responsibility of parents, the community, and school administrators in ensuring the wellness of young people, advocating for a system that allows all children to participate fully in school activities without the burden of food insecurity.

The meeting underscored the critical need for policy changes to support vulnerable families and ensure equitable access to education and nutrition for all students.