Feed Every Student: Fund Halal & Kosher Meals in Illinois Schools | SB 4189 / HB 5754
Students Shouldn’t Have to Choose Between Faith and Food
Illinois passed the Faith by Plate Act, now we need to fund it.
SB 4189 / HB 5754 provide $5 million to deliver halal and kosher meals in public schools.
Why This Matters?
Students shouldn’t have to choose between their faith and basic needs.
SB 4189 and HB 5754 would appropriate $5 million to the State Board of Education to fully implement the Faith by Plate Act, ensuring thousands of Muslim and Jewish students have access to meals that respect their dietary needs this upcoming school year.
We need your voice before the legislative session ends in May.
Background and Facts
In 2025, Illinois became the first state in the nation to require halal and kosher meal options in public schools, hospitals, and correctional facilities.
However, K-12 public schools still lack funding to make this law a reality.
Illinois is home to one of the largest Muslim and Jewish populations in the country.
94% of Illinois Muslims say halal meals are essential, yet nearly 40% of Muslim parents report their children still lack consistent access at school.
Access to faith-compliant, nutritious meals helps students focus, learn, and thrive.
This is about equal access to nutrition, religious freedom, and every student’s chance to succeed.
Tell your legislators to pass SB 4189 / HB 5754
Contact Your Lawmakers Now
Other Ways to Help:
Partner Toolkit - Halal Kosher School Funding Messaging Toolkit - Updated 5/5/26
Share on social media using #FundFaithByPlate #FeedEveryStudent #HalalKosherBill
Forward the suggested email to friends and family
Resources
Bill One-Pager (PDF) → Download here
Action Alert → bit.ly/HalalKosherNow
Partner Messaging Toolkit → bit.ly/HalalKosherPartnerToolkit
Social Media Graphics → Canva Template
The Muslim Civic Coalition is committed to ensuring every student can eat with dignity and belonging.
Thank you for standing with thousands of Muslim and Jewish families across Illinois.