High school cafeterias in Chesterfield County Public Schools are changing. For the first time in 20 years, they are returning to the federal breakfast and lunch program.
What does this mean for families?
The biggest change is that families with high school students will now be able to apply for free or reduced-price meals, just like families with elementary and middle school students. Families are urged to apply as soon as possible.
The online application for free or reduced-price school meals is available here: http://mychesterfieldschools.com/food-and-nutrition-services/. Printed copies of the application are available for pick up at schools and at the school system’s Food and Nutrition Services Office at 7610 Whitepine Rd. and are also being distributed to students.
Information that families submit is entirely confidential. Going through the cafeteria line is exactly the same for students receiving free or reduced-price meals as it is for students who do not qualify for the program: There is no difference.
Only one application per family is required. Household size and income determine whether a family qualifies for free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. See chart for income levels.
Children in households enrolled in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which was formerly the food stamp program) or TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) may not need to complete an application. However, if SNAP or TANF families were not contacted before school opened Sept. 8, they should fill out an application.
Other children who may be eligible for free or reduced-price meals are homeless, migrant or runaway children; foster children who are the legal responsibility of a welfare agency or court, regardless of the income of the household in which they reside; and children in households participating in the Women, Infants and Children Program.
Households may discuss the ruling or get more information by calling Rebecca Bryant at 743-3722. Appeal the decision by contacting, Chris Sorenson, 743-3722.
Household income for reduced-price meals
Size Max Income for Free meals Range for Reduced Price Meals
1 $15,301 $15,301.01 to $21,775
2 $20,709 $20,709.01 to $29,471
3 $26,117 $26,117.01 to $37,167
4 $31,525 $31,525.01 to $44,863
5 $36,933 $36,933.01 to $52,559
6 $42,341 $42,341.01 to $60,255
7 $47,749 $47,749.01 to $67,951
8 $53,157 $53,157.01 to $75,647
For each additional family member, add $5,408 $7,696
