Town hall to focus on child hunger, free school meals in North Carolina

MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. (WWAY) — A community town hall in eastern North Carolina will bring together families, advocates and nutrition experts to discuss child hunger and efforts to provide school meals at no additional cost to families.

The School Meals for All NC coalition is hosting the free event Tuesday, Sept. 15, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the McGee Building at Carteret Community College in Morehead City.

A virtual option will also be available through Zoom.

Organizers say the town hall will focus on food insecurity, the role school meals play in student achievement and how meeting students’ nutritional needs can support their mental health and overall well-being.

The coalition is advocating for nutritious breakfast and lunch to be provided to every public school student in North Carolina at no additional cost to families.

According to information provided by organizers, 28% of North Carolina children who do not have enough to eat likely do not qualify for free or reduced-price meals.

Speakers are expected to include local education advocates, nutrition experts and families affected by food insecurity and school meal access.

The event will also include a question-and-answer session with parents, community leaders and virtual participants.

Dinner will be provided for those attending in person.

The McGee Building at Carteret Community College is located at 3505 Arendell St. in Morehead City.