Free or Reduced-Price Meals Information

Federal Income Eligibility Guidelines are used to determine eligibility for free and reduced lunch pricing. Children from families whose annual income is at or below the Federal Guidelines are eligible for free and reduced price meals or free milk if the school participates in the Special Milk Program.

Households which currently receive Special Nutrition Assistance Program Benefits (SNAP, formerly known as food stamps) or Ohio Works First (OWF) funds for a child must provide the child’s name, the SNAP or OWF case number and signature of an adult household member on the application.

Households which do not receive SNAP or OWF funds must provide the names of all household members, the last four digits of the Social Security Number of the adult signing the application or state “none” if the adult does not have a Social Security Number, the amount and source of gross income received by each household member, (state the income and how often received) and the signature of an adult household member. If any of this information is missing, the district cannot process the application.

The information provided on the application is confidential and will be used only for the purpose of determining eligibility and may be verified at any time during the school year by school or other program officials.

To discourage the possibility of misrepresentation, the application forms contain a statement above the space for signature certifying that all information furnished is true and correct. Applications are being made in connection with the receipt of federal funds. Schools or other officials may check the information on the application at any time during the school year. Deliberate misrepresentation of information may subject the applicant to prosecution under applicable state and federal laws. Households will be notified of approval or denial of benefits.

Foster children are categorically eligible for free meal benefits regardless of the household’s income. If a family has foster children living with them and wishes to apply for such meals or milk for them, contact Food Service for more information.

Under the provision of the policy, Food Services Director Brent Kasler will review applications and determine eligibility. If a parent or guardian disagrees with the decision on the application or the result of verification, the decision may be discussed with the determining official on an informal basis. If a formal appeal is desired, the household has the right to a fair hearing. A fair hearing can be requested either orally or in writing from: Scott Dorne, Deputy Superintendent, 936 Eastwind Drive, Westerville, OH 43081. The policy contains an outline of the hearing procedure. Each school office and the central office has a copy of the policy, which may be reviewed by any interested party.

Households may apply for benefits any time during the school year.  If a household is not currently eligible and if the household size increases or income decreases because of unemployment or other reasons, the family should submit a new application using the LINQ Connect site or submit a new paper application to the Food Service Office. Such changes may make the children of the family eligible for additional benefits if the family income falls at or below federally-determined income levels.