School Meal Programs

Free and reduced-price breakfast and lunch programs help ensure children receive nutritious meals during the school day.

30M+

Children Served Daily

100K+

Participating Schools

$0

Cost for Eligible Families

National School Lunch Program (NSLP)

The NSLP provides nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free lunches to children each school day. Meals must meet federal nutrition standards.

What's Included

Each lunch includes:

  • Protein (meat, poultry, fish, beans, or alternative)
  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grains
  • Low-fat or fat-free milk

School Breakfast Program

Many schools offer breakfast before classes start. Research shows breakfast improves academic performance and attendance.

Breakfast Models

  • Traditional: Served in cafeteria before school
  • Grab-and-Go: Quick breakfast items students can take to class
  • Breakfast in the Classroom: Meals served during first period
  • Second Chance: Breakfast served after first class for students who arrive late

Eligibility and Costs

Category Income Level Lunch Cost Breakfast Cost
Free 130% FPL or below $0.00 $0.00
Reduced-Price Between 130% and 185% FPL $0.40 max $0.30 max
Full Price Above 185% FPL Varies by school Varies by school

How to Apply

  1. Get Application: Available at school office or online at start of year
  2. Complete Form: Provide household size and income information
  3. Submit to School: Return to school office (kept confidential)
  4. Receive Notification: Approval letter sent home within 10 days
  5. Benefits Begin: Once approved, benefits active immediately
Auto-Eligible: Children in households receiving SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR automatically qualify for free meals.

Additional School Nutrition Programs

Summer Food Service Program

Free meals at community sites during summer break when school is out. Find sites by texting "FOOD" to 304-304.

After-School Snacks

Free snacks and meals for children in after-school programs and activities.

Weekend Backpack Programs

Some schools send food home in backpacks on Fridays for children who may not have enough to eat on weekends.

Privacy and Dignity

Schools protect the privacy of students receiving free or reduced meals:

  • Applications are confidential
  • Other students cannot tell who receives free meals
  • Same lunch line and meal options for all students
  • No special identification or tickets required

Additional Food Resources for Families

School meals supplement family food budgets. Find additional help at food banks.

Find Food Banks