Expanded guidelines open up free public school meals to 12,000 more students

July 17, 2026 - 11:54

A significant expansion to the state's free school meal program will make an estimated 12,000 more students eligible for breakfast and lunch at no cost. The updated guidelines now allow households with incomes at or below 300% of the federal poverty level to qualify for the benefit. This change marks a notable shift from previous thresholds, which typically capped eligibility at 185% of the poverty line for reduced-price meals.

The move is intended to address the growing gap between families who qualify for traditional free lunch programs and those who still struggle with food costs but earn too much to meet the old criteria. Under the new income limits, a family of four earning up to roughly $90,000 per year will now be eligible. School officials expect the change to reduce lunch debt and administrative paperwork, as fewer families will need to submit separate applications for reduced-price status.

Advocates for child nutrition have praised the decision, noting that food insecurity among school-aged children has remained high. The program is funded through a combination of federal reimbursement and state budget allocations. Schools have already begun notifying families of the new eligibility window, with the expanded coverage set to take effect at the start of the next academic term.