Income Guidelines for School Lunches in Pennsylvania
Nutrition is an imperative part of learning. Food fuels concentration and comprehension during the school day. Breakfast before school and lunch during the day play a big role in nutritional and educational nourishment, but many kids arrive at school hungry -- and without money or a packed meal for lunch.
The Pennsylvania Department of Education has partnered with the National School Lunch Program, which offers school age children in low-income families meals at a reduced rate or free of charge.
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About the Program
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More than 186 million school lunches are served annually in Pennsylvania schools. By participating in the federal school lunch program, schools are able to provide nutritious meals free of charge or at a reduced price to those in need. The program reimburses participating school districts for all meals that meet nutrition guidelines set by the program. These meals can include breakfast, lunch and after-school snacks.
Free Lunch Guidelines
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For a child to qualify for the NSLP's free lunch, the family's income must be at or below 130 percent of the poverty level. Also, children automatically qualify for free lunch if they are part of a family receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or belong to a family receiving food stamp benefits.
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Reduced Lunch Guidelines
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To qualify for reduced-price lunches, the family income must be no more than 185 percent of the poverty level. As per the guidelines set forth by the NSLP, reduced lunches should cost no more than $.40.
Poverty Levels
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Pennsylvania shares the same poverty level as the 48 contiguous states and District of Columbia. These numbers are based on the number of persons in the family. Poverty levels change annually, but until new figures are approved the thresholds may still be based on the previous year's. For example, as of January 2011, the 2010 poverty levels were still being used.
The 2010 poverty rate for a family of two is $14,570 and for a family of four, it is $22,050.
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