The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is a US government program that provides students healthy meals at school. It offers free or reduced-price lunches to families who meet certain income requirements. Sometimes it also offers free breakfast.
What is Free and Reduced-Price Lunch?
Free lunch: Students receive lunch at school at no cost to their families.
Reduced-price lunch: Students pay a small, reduced amount for lunch.
Who is Eligible?
You can get free and reduced lunch it you are eligible. Eligibility is based on your family's income and size. Eligibility Guidelines
Here's a simple explanation:
Income guidelines: The government sets income limits each year. If your family's income is below these limits, your child may be eligible.
Household size: The income limits depend on the number of people in your household. A larger family can have a higher income and still qualify.
SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR: If your family receives benefits from programs like the SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR, your child automatically gets free lunch at school.
Foster children, homeless children, and migrant children are automatically eligible for free lunch.
Schools in high-poverty areas: Some schools provide free meals to all students,
How to Apply:
Application forms: Schools provide application forms at the beginning of the school year. You can apply online at many schools. You do not need a Social Security number to apply.
You have to apply every year.
Income information: You'll need to provide information about your family's income.
Confidentiality: The school will not share your information with anyone.
How does this help your child?
Your child will get nutritious meals every day.
Children who eat well are better able to focus in school.
It helps keep children from being hungry.
When children are not hungry, they are more likely to succeed in school
Key Points for Immigrant Families:
Even if you're new to the country, you can still apply.
You don't need to be a U.S. citizen to qualify.
Schools will keep your information private.
Do not hesitate to ask the school for help filling out the form.