Fort Worth ISD Launches Free Dinner Program for Students

Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) is set to introduce a new free dinner program in collaboration with food service provider Sodexo for the 2024-2025 school year. This initiative aims to combat hunger and enhance the learning environment for students. Pamela Watson, Executive Director of Child Nutrition Services, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating it reflects a commitment to fostering student well-being and academic success. The dinner program will be available at campuses that offer after-school enrichment activities, allowing all students present on those days to receive a meal, regardless of their enrollment in after-school programs. Meals will be served 15 minutes after the school day concludes, ensuring that students have access to nutritious food at the end of their academic day. Deputy Superintendent Kellie Spencer expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the critical role nutrition plays in the learning process. She reiterated the district's dedication to providing healthy and appealing meal options for breakfast, lunch, and now dinner. This initiative complements the existing free breakfast and lunch programs that will continue throughout the 2024-2025 school year. Sodexo also voiced its commitment to supporting initiatives that guarantee children have reliable access to nutritious food, which is essential for their health and productivity. The new program will commence on the first day of school, August 13, marking a significant step in addressing food insecurity among students in the Fort Worth area.