Food Assistance

Free/Reduced School Meals

Last updated: August 29, 2024

Who Qualifies?

  • School-aged children through grade 12 whose families meet income guidelines
  • No requirement to document citizenship or immigrant status

Income and Resource Limits

There is not a resource test. Depending on income, the child receives a free or reduced price meal. Children whose families receive SNAP benefits or RI Works are eligible for free meals.

How to Apply

Families receive an application at the beginning of the school year that is returned to the school. A family can apply at any time during the school year if income changes. If the application is denied, the applicant can request a hearing by contacting the person listed on the program application.

Annual Income Limits for Free/Reduced-Price School Meals

July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025

Family SizeReduced Price School MealsFree School Meals
1$27,861$19,578
2$37,814$26,572
3$47,767$33,566
4$57,720$40,560
5$67,673$47,554
6$77,626$54,548

*For households with more than 8 people, add $6,994 (reduced price)/$9,953 (free meals) for each additional person.

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