You’ve heard the saying, “There’s no such thing as a free lunch.” Well, we’re here to tell you that’s not true—at least not for the children in your care!
All Children In Foster Care
All children in foster care are eligible to receive free school meals, regardless of the school district they attend. This is an incredible benefit from the state of Texas, ensuring that foster children receive the nutrition they need to thrive while also easing a small burden for families.
This benefit program is as follows:
“Foster children who are the legal responsibility of the State or formally placed with a caregiver by the court are categorically eligible for free meals/milk in the National School Lunch Program/School Breakfast Program (NSLP/SBP), Special Milk Program (SMP), Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), and Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). A caregiver who wants free meals/milk for their foster child/children need only present this [Placement Authorization] document to the school, the summer feeding site, or their child care provider. No further application is required.”
Check with your local school to apply. Be prepared to show the Placement Authorization documentation for the child, which is received at placement (see page 2 of that document).
Families in Dallas ISD
For families in DISD, the district is now offering free school lunches to all students. It’s a wonderful initiative to ensure every child has access to healthy meals completely free of charge, regardless of income. Visit your school for details, as families may be required to fill out paperwork despite the fact that they may not meet typical income requirements.
According to DallasISD.org:
“We provide students with breakfast and lunch that meets or exceeds the requirements set forth by the US Department of Agriculture and the Texas Department of Agriculture.”
“School meals are served to students under the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program. Meals and snacks are also served through the United States Department of Agriculture’s Seamless Summer Option and the Child and Adult Care Feeding Program.”
Read more here: DallasISD.org
For those outside of DISD, we suggest you check with your local school or district to find out what benefits are available. We encourage CK families to take advantage of these nutritious benefits! If you need any help or have questions, please reach out to your Case Manager. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
If you are considering becoming a foster parent, learn more about our agency here: FOSTER CARE & ADOPTION SERVICES
