Applications for free and reduced-price meals for students who attend schools that are not eligible for a federal assistance program are due Aug. 22, according to a Cumberland County Schools news release.
The federal Community Eligibility Provision of the U.S. Department of Agriculture applies to schools located in low-income areas. In Cumberland County, 62 public schools qualify, according to the school system’s website.
In the district’s other 24 schools, parents must file an application for free or reduced-price meals.
A list of eligible schools is online at the Child Nutrition CEP webpage.
Applications can take as long as 10 days to process. Online applications are available at www.LunchApplication.com.
Universal free lunch has ended, but students across the district can still receive breakfast at no cost, the release said. Students at schools that don’t qualify for the federal aid program must pay for meals unless an application is approved for the upcoming school year.
In June, the Cumberland County Board of Education approved the first meal price increase since 2017. The cost rose by 50 cents for students who pay full price.
Students who qualify for reduced prices will pay 40 cents for lunch.
For elementary students who pay full price, the cost for lunch this year is $2.65.
For middle and high school students who pay full price, the cost is $2.75.
