The two federal programs that provided free school lunches to all students have ended.
LPS Director of Nutrition Services Andrew Ashelford tells KLIN News they are returning to the free, reduced and full price meal system for the upcoming school year.
Ashelford says, “It is a hurdle. We are really working to communicate to families to fill out the free and reduced application. There is an online version that is the fastest for families to fill out. It takes about ten minutes. All we need is the household size, the household income and the applicants Social Security number but it is not required.”
Ashelford says they hope a lot of people apply. This is a benefit for the family. Grocery store prices are a lot higher than they were a year ago and this is a way for families to save some money if they meet the qualifications.
Of the families that filled out the application forms last year, Ashelford says about 44% to 45% qualified for the program. Families who receive SNAP benefits, LPS will receive information from DHHS and they automatically qualify for benefits. Families will be notified.
Qualifications depend on household size and income. A family of five making between $42,000 and $60,000 will receive reduced price lunches. Those making under $42,000 receive free meals. A reduced price breakfast is 30-cents and breakfast is 40-cents.
Meal prices this year have gone up. Elementary student meal price is $2.50, middle school students $2.70 and high school, $2.80.
Ashelford is asking that families apply now. The application form can be found by clicking here.