By Public Communications
Each year, the Arby’s Foundation donates $1 million dollars to help relieve school lunch debt across the United States through its School Lunch Debt Program.
In December, Humble ISD was notified that its grant application had been selected for funding, totaling $33,328 to cover student lunch debt.
On Monday, January 8, Child Nutrition Services zeroed out all negative balance student lunch accounts across Humble ISD, totaling $32,576.78, which affected 4,141 students thanks to a grant from the Arby’s Foundation. The negative balance that was on each account as of 4 p.m. on Monday, January 8, is what was zeroed out.
“I appreciate the generosity of Arby's Foundation for their impactful grant, which has not only wiped out negative balances for our meal accounts district-wide but has also brought immense benefit to those in need,” Humble ISD Director of Child Nutrition Services Nancy Montalbo said. “Their commitment to supporting the community is truly commendable, and we are grateful for their contribution by alleviating that financial burden. Thank you, Arby's Foundation, for making a positive difference in the lives of many.”
The remaining funds from the Arby’s Foundation grant will be utilized for student lunch debt at the end of the 2023-2024 school year.
In November, Humble ISD submitted its grant application to the Arby’s Foundation School Lunch Debt Program. In December, the district was notified that our grant application had been selected for funding.
"By eliminating this financial burden, we ensure that every student can focus on their education without the added stress of unpaid lunch balances,” Humble ISD Resource Development Coordinator Melinna Lopez said. “A nourished student is an engaged learner, and this grant would directly contribute to creating a positive and supportive environment for our students, fostering their academic success and well-being."
The grant application is available to all school districts across the United States to help pay off all student lunch debt.