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Applications open for free or reduced school lunches

During the school year, 30.3 million children receive free or reduced-price lunches at their public schools. For these students, the end of school raises the question—what's for lunch?
Photo Illustration by Ruby Wallau/NPR
During the school year, 30.3 million children receive free or reduced-price lunches at their public schools. For these students, the end of school raises the question—what's for lunch?

With a new school year here, now is the time to apply for free or reduced-priced meals.

These funds come from the National School Lunch, School Breakfast, Special Milk and Child and Adult Care Food programs.

A family of four with an income at or below $39,000 can apply for yearly free lunches. That same family with an income at or below $55,500 qualify for a year of reduced lunches.

The application period is open, and materials can be found at the Department of Education website.

Income guidelines for free or reduced-price meal programs at South Dakota public schools for the 2023-24 school year.
South Dakota Dept. of Education
Income guidelines for free or reduced-price meal programs at South Dakota public schools for the 2023-24 school year.

C.J. Keene is a Rapid City-based journalist covering politics, the court system, education, and culture