Completing the Free and Reduced-Price Meal Application is important even if a family believes they may not qualify or their child does not eat school meals. The information helps both families and schools in several ways.
- Helps eligible families receive meal benefits. Families who qualify can receive free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch, helping lower household food costs and ensuring children have access to nutritious meals.
- Brings funding to the school. The number of eligible students is often used to determine federal and state funding for schools.
- Supports other student programs. Eligibility may help families qualify for other benefits, such as:
- Reduced or waived school fees (where applicable)
- Reduced rates for before/aftercare
- Summer meal programs
- Other community resources
- Helps schools understand student needs. The information gives schools a clearer picture of the economic needs of their students, allowing them to plan services and apply for grants that benefit all students.
- Keeps information confidential. Applications are reviewed confidentially. Individual family income information is not shared with teachers or other families.