DINH DOONG

The debate surrounding whether society should prioritize providing free school lunches for children or paying off college debt for adults is complex, but I believe that focusing on children’s needs should be the first priority.

Ensuring that all children receive free school lunches is a direct investment in their health, well-being, and academic success. Children cannot focus or perform well in school when they are hungry, and for many families, providing a nutritious lunch every day is a financial burden. By offering free lunches to all students, we would be ensuring that no child has to go through the day on an empty stomach, leveling the playing field and providing an equitable foundation for learning.

On the other hand, while student debt relief is a significant issue for many adults, it tends to benefit those who have already had the opportunity to pursue higher  education. College graduates, even with debt, often have greater earning potential than those who never attended college. Moreover, cancelling college debt would not address the root causes of rising education costs and may only provide temporary relief. Children, however, are at the most vulnerable stage of their lives and are entirely dependent on adults to provide for their basic needs. If we are serious about building a stronger future, we must invest in the well-being of our youngest citizens first.

Additionally, providing free school lunches can have long-term societal benefits. Healthy, well-nourished children are more likely to succeed academically, and better academic performance often translates into higher earnings later in life. This means that investing in children’s health today could help prevent future generations from falling into debt in the first place. Also, it could reduce healthcare costs in the long run, as children who grow up with access to proper nutrition are less likely to suffer from diet-related health problems, such as obesity or diabetes.

In contrast, paying off college debt does not guarantee that it will benefit society as a whole. While it would undoubtedly provide relief to many individuals, it does not solve the broader issue of economic inequality. Those who are most burdened by college debt often already possess skills and education that make them more employable, whereas children from low-income families, who may not even have the chance to go to college, are left behind.

It’s also important to consider that children’s needs are immediate and pressing. For many families, the struggle to provide meals is a daily reality, and this issue can have an immediate negative impact on a child’s development. Addressing this problem is not just a matter of charity; it’s a moral obligation. As a society, we should make sure that all children, regardless of their background, are given the opportunity to succeed by providing them with the basics they need to thrive.

In conclusion, while student debt relief is an important issue, the urgency and widespread impact of providing free school lunches make it a more pressing concern. By focusing on the needs of children, we invest in the future of our society as a whole. Ensuring that every child has access to nutritious meals at school should be a priority over paying off the debts of adults who have already had their chance to pursue higher education.