MATTAWAN, Mich. (WOOD) — A state program that reimburses schools for providing all students free meals could expend all its funding by Sept. 30 if a new state budget is not approved by then.

Many districts are bracing parents for an uncertain future.

Since the fall of 2023, Michigan School Meals has reimbursed districts that provide meals as part of a federal program offering free and reduced-cost breakfast and lunch to students. The program also covered meals for students not usually eligible for the help.

Among the school districts that feed kids is Mattawan Consolidated. Superintendent Randy Fleenor said more than 80% of his students benefit from the program. On top of convenience and nutrition, he said it fills an important gap.

"We know in school that if students are hungry, they

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