Press Release

For Immediate Release

Contact Information
Dawn Schellenberg
Phone: 206-889-8638
Email: dawn.schellenberg2@seattle.gov

Statement on passage of FEPP Levy Amendment

The following statement is from Mayor Katie B. Wilson:

"When the Trump administration cut SNAP benefits and threatened thousands of families' ability to put food on the table, it made clear how much our neighbors are depending on us to step up. That is what drove me to make universal school meals a priority in the FEPP Levy Implementation and Evaluation Plan. K-12 education is free and universal, and the nutrition a child needs to show up ready to learn should be no different.

While I am disappointed with the decision to delay universal meals for a full school year, I respect the Council’s process and know we share a commitment to addressing food insecurity. I am proud that the amendment passed by Council commits the City to universal school meals in 2027. That means up to 6,800 students who currently fall through the cracks will have access to free breakfast and lunch, families will save roughly $1,200 a year, and there is a path to end the stigma around food insecurity in our schools.

I will work closely with the Council, our departments and the Seattle School District to implement the new food voucher program in 2026 and prepare for full implementation of universal school means in 2027."

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