Childhood hunger took center stage during the State of the State Address on January 15, 2025, as the governor unveiled a bold initiative aimed at providing free school lunches to over 35,000 Kansas students. With nearly half of Kansas children living in low-income households, the governor emphasized the urgent need to address this critical issue, stating, "These kids can't afford to pay for school lunches."

Highlighting the efforts of local advocates, the governor introduced Connie Voatz, director of nutrition services for USD 480 and president of the Kansas School Nutrition Association. Voatz shared her firsthand experience of the challenges faced by hungry children, noting that 87% of students in her district qualify for reduced or free lunch, the highest percentage in the state.

The proposed budget aims to eliminate the burden of lunch costs, reduce stigma for low-income students, and enhance academic success. The governor urged lawmakers to support this initiative, declaring, "Let's do this for our children."

As the address concluded, the governor expressed optimism for the future, envisioning a Kansas where no child goes to bed or school hungry. The call to action sets the stage for a significant shift in how the state addresses childhood hunger, with potential long-term benefits for both students and the community.