School Breakfast and Lunch Programs
The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) provide healthy food to children during the school year. Meals and breakfasts meet nutrition guidelines set by the USDA to help fight hunger and obesity and promote the health and well-being of children. Families can apply through their school to receive low and no-cost meals during the school year and pre-qualify for other benefits year-round, such as low-cost internet and pandemic-related food benefits.
Am I eligible?
- Students receiving help through TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) or SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) — as well as all other students in the same household — automatically qualify for free meals.
- Children in households with incomes below 130 percent of the poverty level also qualify for free meals, but need to apply. For a family of 3, this is about $2,380 a month or $28,500 a year. The income limit is higher for bigger families and lower for smaller families.
- Those with family incomes between 130 and 185 percent of the poverty level qualify for reduced-price meals, but need to apply. For a family of 3, this is about $3,385 a month or $40,625 a year. The income limit is higher for bigger families and lower for smaller families.
- When school is out of session in the summertime, children continue to receive nutritious meals and snacks through the Summer Food Service Program.
- There are no citizenship requirements for participation, and immigration status is not requested or disclosed.
How can I apply?
- Fill out a Free and Reduced-Price Meal Application with your school. Completing the application not only helps you qualify for meals, but also helps you school receive additional funding to improve other services and programs.
- The application process is simple and confidential.