An interview with Congressman Henry Cuellar about funding for Starr County schools

RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas - Congressman Henry Cuellar has announced $14.4 million in federal funding for Starr County school districts for free or reduced meals for students. The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National School Breakfast Program (SBP) and National School Lunch Program (NSLP). Cuellar said the funds can be used to provide free school breakfasts, lunches, dinners and after school snacks.  “This is so important for the child, because if the child is not hungry, they're ready to learn,” Cuellar told the Rio Grande Guardian. “It’s important for the school, because the kids are ready to learn. It’s good for the parents also, because they don't have to buy the breakfast, the lunch or the dinner. And it is important for Starr County because 85 percent of all the kids here et either free lunches or reduced-price lunches.” Cuellar, a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, gave an interview to the Guardian after making the announcement at Delia G. Garcia Elementary School in Roma.  He said Roma ISD received a total of $5,922,078, Rio Grande City Grulla ISD received a total of $8,366,325, and San Isidro ISD received a total of $189,320.  “This funding ensures that each student in Roma ISD, Rio Grande City Grulla ISD, and San Isidro ISD can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner at no cost,” said Cuellar, proudly. “These federal dollars will provide free, quality, and nutritious meals for our students,” Cuellar said, pointing out that the funds can also be used by school districts for essential equipment to allow staff to provide food services in Starr County. “In Congress, I will continue to fight to ensure our students have the resources they need to succeed. I would like to thank Starr County school district superintendents, food service workers, and educators for their continued commitment to our students' success.”Go to www.riograndeguardian.com to read the latest border news stories and watch the latest news videos.