>> when you look at lunch we have about $1.50 to spend on actual food. >> reporter: that's it. >> that's it. >> reporter: is that enough? >> i think it's very very difficult. i think that the people who are trying to make those small amounts of money stretch and feed all these children have one of the hardest jobs. it would be great if there was more funding for them. >> reporter: marlene is the director of the center for food policy and obesity. >> there are a lot of districts across the country where the rates of poverty are so high in that district that it's just appropriate to provide free breakfast and lunch for everyone. >> reporter: elise is in second grade here at wilbur cross, a typical elementary school in bridgeport, connecticut. none of them have a full working kitchen. they are essentially warming and serving stations. that saves money on equipment and labor. that's why all the food for the district is made here at the nutrition center.