Covid-19 related programs providing free lunch are no longer available
Since the pandemic began, many Virginia families didn’t have to worry about afford lunches for their school-aged children. However, as the new school year is about to start, many families will have to go back to paying full price for their students. Thankfully, there has been an expansion to the qualifications needed in order to qualify for free lunches, meaning an additional 65,000 students across the Commonwealth will qualify for free meals. More and more schools are also enrolling in the Community Eligibility Program, so that all their students are able to have lunch at no additional charge.
Even though free lunch for all is coming to an end, those that have previously qualified under the guidelines are also able to apply for summer P-EBT. This expanision will allow for additional money to be given to families food food and grocery expenses.
The Federation of Virginia Food Banks urges all families to apply for free or reduced lunch and to see if they qualify for additional funding under P-EBT.
If you or someone you know needs food assistance, the Federation of Virginia Food Banks and our seven-member food banks can help to connect you with the food resources you need. Please remember that Federal and state programs are the first line of defense for those dealing with food insecurity.
