LPS opens free and reduced meal application after federal funding ends

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Lincoln Public Schools was able to provide free lunches up until June 30th as the “Keep Kids Fed” Act ended. Now, parents will need to budget for both school supplies and meals.

Over 45 percent of LPS families were a part of the free and reduced program before the pandemic. There was no need to apply for the program the past two years, thanks to federal funding. Now, however, families are going to have to fill out an application for reduced meals for the upcoming school year.

LPS has recently increased the price of lunches by five cents a day across the board for elementary, middle and high schools. The new prices will only affect families who are not eligible for the free and reduced program.

Eligibility will depend on family size and income. Guidelines to see if you qualify can be found here.

“Price increases just went for the paid students,” LPS Director of Nutrition Services Andrew Ashelford said. “It was a nickel increase for lunches at each grade level: K through 5, 6 through 8 and 9 through 12. The reduced-price meals for lunch are still at 40 cents, and the reduced price at breakfast is still 30 cents. Then, families that do qualify for free will receive free breakfast and lunches if they choose to eat with us.”

This is the first bump in prices in six years, but LPS says a five-cent increase will cover some of their higher inflation costs.

“Our food prices were increasing, and the disposable products are increasing,” Ashelford said. “We just had that kind of look at it with a moderate increase of a nickel for lunches, and we left it at that and then we’ll just look at it every year.”

Applying to this program can grant access to other needs as well throughout the school year.

“They could be eligible for certain waivers such as band instruments, cheerleading, athletic passes and stuff like that,” Ashelford said. “Outside of the district, families that are on the free and reduced program can qualify for reduced price internet. So that is a very important thing that can help save families money.”

LPS says its nutrition services warehouse is one way they try to cut costs on distribution. Food can be bought in bulk to keep prices on lunches as low as possible.

The application can be filled out at any time during the year or multiple times a year. If the family grows in size or jobs change, families can apply to the program here or reach out to a nutrition services staff member by calling 402-436-1747. Once submitted, it will take about 10 days to process.