National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs
The National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs are two of the many school meals programs funded by the USDA. Children eligible for the School Breakfast and Lunch programs receive free or reduced price meals during the school year. Certain low-income schools also participate in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Program as a component of their School Lunch and Breakfast Programs.
Families with children in grade school through high school can apply for these programs. Children whose families receive SNAP benefits are automatically enrolled for free or reduced price school breakfasts and lunches. However, families may qualify for school meals even if they are not in one of the other food assistance programs. For information on how to apply, please contact your child’s public school administrative office or go to the program's website.
The Food and Nutrition Service oversees the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs at the Federal level. At the State level, these programs are primarily administered by State education agencies, which operate the program through agreements with school food authorities.