Free and reduced-price meals eligibility guidelines set for 2018-19 school year

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) recently announced the eligibility guidelines for students to receive free and reduced-price lunch, breakfast and after-school snacks through the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. The policy took effect at the start of the 2019 fiscal year on July 1, 2018. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) sets the policy for each fiscal year to reflect any changes in the federal poverty guidelines.

The National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program are funded by USDA and administered by ISBE. Free and reduced-price meals ensure access to nutritious meals and snacks for families unable to pay the full price. To see the eligibility guidelines, go to https://tinyurl.com/ybtvurzp.