I keep a note on my desk. It reads, "To whom it may concern: our son was diagnosed with cancer 3 weeks ago. If we are able to receive any assistance, we would greatly appreciate it."

A lot has changed in the short time it's been 2025.

The landscape of government programs is evolving rapidly, driven by policy changes (such as the uncertainty of the future for the Department of Education and funding for the USDA) and growing demand for efficiency. State agencies and school administrators face increasing challenges with staffing, lower enrollment, and budgets, making managing eligibility, compliance, and meal program operations more difficult, all while trying to ensure children receive the nutrition they need.