Free & Reduced Meals

Free & Reduced-Price Meal Benefits

Unit 40 participates in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. Children from households that meet the federal income guidelines below may qualify for free or reduced-price meals.

How to Apply

Complete one Household Eligibility Application per household for all children attending Unit 40 schools. Applications are available before the start of each school year and throughout the year. Additional copies may be obtained from your child's school office. You can also print off the Applications included below. Please complete the application as soon as possible and answer all required questions. Incomplete applications cannot be processed.

Who Should Apply?

You do not need to complete an application if:

you have received a letter from the district stating that your child has been approved through the Direct Certification process
you are part of a household receiving SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) or TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), or Medicare

Children who are homeless, in foster care, migrant, runaway, or participating in Head Start programs may also qualify for free meal benefits. Families participating in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program are encouraged to apply, as they may be eligible. If you are unsure whether you need to complete an application, please contact the Food Services Department.

Apply Anytime

You may apply for free or reduced-price meal benefits at any time during the school year. If your family's financial situation changes, such as a loss of income, unemployment, or an increase in household size, you are encouraged to submit a new application.

Special Dietary Accommodations

All school meals meet the nutrition standards established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). If your child has a disability that requires meal substitutions, Unit 40 will provide appropriate accommodations when supported by medical documentation from a licensed healthcare provider. Please contact your child's school or the Food Services Department for assistance with requesting meal accommodations.

Questions?

If you have questions about eligibility, completing an application, or meal accommodations, please contact the Unit 40 Food Services Department. We're happy to help.