As parents, we always want the best for our children, ensuring they receive nutritious meals during their school day. If you're worried about covering meal expenses, the good news is that the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) offers free or reduced-price meals for eligible students. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the income eligibility scales for the school year 2023-24 and explain how you can apply for this valuable benefit using an easy online process.
Income Eligibility Scales for Free and Reduced-Price Meals
The Income Eligibility Guidelines for Free and Reduced-Price Meals or Free Milk in Child Nutrition Programs are updated annually, and for the period from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024, they provide the following household income levels:
Free Eligibility Scale:
For a household of one: Annual income at or below $18,954
For a household of two: Annual income at or below $25,636
For a household of three: Annual income at or below $32,318
For a household of four: Annual income at or below $39,000
And so on (add $6,682 for each additional family member)
Reduced-Price Eligibility Scale:
For a household of one: Annual income between $18,955 and $26,973
For a household of two: Annual income between $25,637 and $36,482
For a household of three: Annual income between $32,319 and $45,991
For a household of four: Annual income between $39,001 and $55,500
And so on (add $9,509 for each additional family member)
Applying for Free Meals
LAUSD provides a simple and convenient online application process. To apply for free meals for your children, follow these steps:
Gather the Required Information:
Names, dates of birth, and school names for all LAUSD students in your household, along with their income information if applicable.
Names of all other household members and their income information.
The last 4 digits of the Social Security Number of the person submitting the application, or indicate "I do not have one" if you lack a Social Security Number.
Complete the Online Application:
Click on this link to access the online meal application.
Follow the instructions and provide the requested information accurately.
Double-check your application before submitting it.
Submit and Wait for Approval:
After completing the application, perform a final review.
Click on the "Submit" tab to finish the application process.
Your online application will be processed within 24 hours, eliminating the need for paper applications.
You will receive a letter in the mail notifying you of your application status.
Contact Information for Questions:
If you have any questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to contact the Food Services Division at 213-241-3185. They are more than happy to help you navigate the application process and provide any necessary support.
Take Away
Ensuring your children receive nutritious meals at school shouldn't be a financial burden. LAUSD's free and reduced-price meal program is designed to support families in need. By following the income eligibility guidelines and utilizing the easy online application process, you can secure these valuable benefits for your kids. Don't hesitate to take advantage of this opportunity to provide your children with the nourishment they deserve, helping them stay focused and healthy throughout their school day. Apply today and give your children a head start for a bright future!
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