We strongly encourage parents to complete the Free and Reduced-price Meal Application. Confirmed eligibility establishes a number of benefits for individual students, such as free or discounted college-admissions tests, AP exams, and college applications; scholarship opportunities; and no- and low-cost access to technology and internet plans.
In addition, the percentages of qualifying students at a school are used as a measure to secure additional federal funding (Title I) to support students and their education, promote family engagement, and provide additional technology and internet access. Title I funds pay for additional teachers, additional learning opportunities for students, extra resources, added technology, and more.
Internet Access
Some organizations offer low or no cost in-home WiFi to families who receive Free/Reduced benefits. Additional school funding allows LHUSD to provide mobile hot spots to qualifying families.
Meal Benefits
In past years, students receiving Free/Reduced benefits received breakfast and lunch at little to no cost. During the pandemic, families receiving Free/Reduced meals received additional P-EBT benefits as well.
Curricular Fees
Many families who receive Free/Reduced benefits are also eligible for textbook assistance. This helps offset a portion of the cost of your child's annual curricular materials fees.
College Prep
Students who receive Free/Reduced benefits may also receive discounts or waivers for tests such as the SAT, ACT, AP exams, and more. Some colleges & universities will also reduce or waive their schools application fees.
College Aid & Programs
Students may qualify to participate in college prep programs. Many college scholarships are need-based, and organizations will use Free/Reduced Meal status as a factor.
Program Information
The National School Lunch Program provides free and reduced-price meals to students who meet eligibility guidelines. Families who wish to apply must complete a new application* every school year.
For the first 30 operating days of the school year, LHUSD students will keep the same paid, free, or reduced-price meal status as the previous year.
Applications will be processed within 10 days.
A copy of the Letter of Eligibility must be obtained from the student's parent or guardian. If you need a replacement copy of the letter of Eligibility, the parent or guardian may contact the Child Nutrition Services office at 982-854-5413.
The free and reduced program includes only one meal at lunch and at breakfast. If a student goes back for a second meal, their account will be charged in full.
* NOTE: an application can be submitted at any time during the year - if/when financial status changes.
APPLICATIONS
Prior year applications EXPIRE Sept 14th, 2023
A new application MUST be filled out every year!
Who is eligible for Free Meals?
All children in households receiving benefits from SNAP, FDPIR (Food Distribution
Program on Indian Reservations) or TANF can get free meals regardless of your
income.
Foster children that are under the legal responsibility of a foster care agency or court.
Children participating in their school’s Head Start Program.
Children who meet the definition of homeless, runaway, or migrant.
Your children may qualify for free
or reduced-price meals if your household income falls at or below the income guidelines in the table below.
Federal Eligibility Income Guidelines for school year 2023-2024
Household Size
Yearly Income
Monthly Income
Weekly Income
1
26,973
2,248
519
2
36,482
3,041
702
3
45,991
3,833
885
4
55,500
4,625
1,068
5
65,009
5,418
1,251
6
74,518
6,210
1,434
7
84,027
7,003
1,616
8
93,538
7,795
1,799
Each additional person
+9,509
+793
+183
How to Apply
Electronic applications can be submitted through the LINQ Connect Portal. This is the fastest process for approval.
If you prefer, you can also download the paper application below to turn in directly to your student's school.
