Free and Reduced Price Meal Information

WHAT IS THIS PROGRAM?

The Ohio Department of Education, Office of Nutrition, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), administers the National School Lunch, School Breakfast, Special Milk, After School Care Snack, and USDA Foods Programs among others. Nationally, more than 25 million students in approximately 90,000 schools and agencies participate in Child Nutrition Programs, making them one of the country’s largest food service operations. 

WHO IS QUALIFIED?

Any student of high school grade or under who is enrolled in an educational unit of high school grade or under in a participating school is qualified to participate in this program. Additional benefits may be available to a student after the submission of a free and reduced-price school meals application or the student is deemed eligible through the direct certification process. Based on the household size and income, the student may be eligible for meals free or at a reduced price.

MORE INFORMATION FOR FREE AND REDUCED LUNCH FOR THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR WILL BE POSTED SOON.

Check back soon for access to the application and more information.

HOW TO APPLY?

• PREFERRED METHOD TO APPLY:  A Payschools account must be created to fill out a Free and Reduced Application online. 

• ALTERNATIVE METHOD TO APPLY:  If you are unable to apply online, please use this link to access a paper application.  

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

• Click here to view our Public Release regarding the 24-25 Free and Reduced Meal policy 
• Click here to learn more about this program on the USDA's website