Food support update: SNAP interruption, school meals, and local resources

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provides monthly food benefits that help eligible households buy groceries. Due to the federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits are expected to expire at the end of October. We know this will create stress for many households, and we want to make sure everyone knows what support is available.

What you can count on at school:

• No student is ever denied a meal in our district, regardless of free/reduced status or account balance.
• Students are encouraged to eat both school breakfast and lunch each day.
• Many schools have a Share Table (non-perishable and prepackaged items only, per food-safety rules) that is provided for students to grab additional food items.
• Some schools also host on-site food pantries; check with your school office for hours.
• At the end of each week, excess food from our kitchens is donated to Table to Table and the Salvation Army.

Community food resources:

• We’ve posted an up-to-date list and map of local pantries on our website, which can be found here: Community Food Resources Page. We encourage families to use these resources as needed.
• If you’re able, please consider supporting local pantries; both food and monetary donations help. Examples of some of the most-needed items include financial donations, canned fruit in juice, peanut butter, canned meat, baby diapers and formula, rice, pasta, hearty soups/stews (pop-tab cans), toilet paper, and laundry detergent.

If your income has changed:

• You can apply for free or reduced-price meal benefits at any time. The application can be found at: https://www.myschoolapps.com/Home/PickDistrict

If you have questions or need help accessing food, please contact your school office to speak with your building’s Student & Family Advocate. Thank you for looking out for one another and for supporting our community during this time.