[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 88 (Friday, June 14, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1091]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM

                                 ______


                         HON. KAREN L. THURMAN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 13, 1996

  Mrs. THURMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to recognize the 50th 
anniversary of the National School Lunch Program. In public schools 
across America, 25 million students receive nutritional meals because 
of the School Lunch Program. For many children, a school lunch is the 
only healthy meal they eat all day. School lunches improve children's 
overall health, thereby increasing their learning capacity and 
lengthening their attention spans. The School Lunch Program highlights 
the essential role the Government can play in protecting the health and 
well-being of our children. As a former teacher, I have firsthand 
knowledge of what a hot meal can mean to a hungry and distracted 
student.
  It is also my great pleasure to express my gratitude to the dedicated 
educators, administrators, staff, and parents who have worked to ensure 
the success of the National School Lunch Program.
  The longevity of the program is the result of the partnership between 
the Federal Government and local communities, working together to feed, 
educate, and care for our Nation's children.
  Therefore, I am delighted to celebrate National School Lunch Week, 
and I look forward to continued support and funding for this program 
that is so vital to our children's current health and future growth.

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