(TRENTON) – Assembly Democrat Benjie Wimberly (D-Bergen, Passaic) released the following statement regarding the report by the Office of the State Comptroller on fraudulent school lunch program applications:
“It’s disheartening to hear of individuals manipulating the free school lunch program, and especially, of the incidents found within Paterson’s school district. The state must ensure the rules are followed and the FSLP recipients are truly qualified for the program in the future.
“We cannot let those few bad apples spoil the good FSLP has done for generations of children. It is imperative for FSLP to run efficiently, effectively and reach those in need. This lunch program is as essential to educating our children today, in cities like Paterson, as dedicated teachers, books and technology.”
“I hope this incident will not be used as an excuse to put less money into ensuring every child the right to a healthy and productive educational environment. Our children should not have to pay for the mistakes made by these adults.”