More students in Idaho will receive free or reduced-price meals at school this year

BOISE, Idaho -- More students in Idaho are now eligible to receive free or reduced-price meals during the school day, thanks to a recent change to a USDA program.

Over 160,000 Idaho students who are enrolled in Medicaid and whose families are below the federal poverty level will automatically qualify for free or reduced-price breakfasts and lunch for the 2024-2025 school year.

The change to the USDA's Direct Certification with Medicaid Demonstration Project more than doubled the number of eligible students in the state.

According to the Idaho Department of Education, all students below 185% of the federal poverty level will qualify for reduced-price meals and those below 130% for free meals. In 2024, the FLP for a family of four is $31,200.

Idaho is one of five states who applied and was selected for the program's expansion this year.

"This change cuts significant red tape for both schools and families when it comes to getting kids fed and ready to learn," said Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield. "By removing this barrier for both parents and families, we can ensure that our efforts are concentrated on what they should be - educating kids - and not on filling out or processing governmental forms that can be a barrier to service."

For more information, visit www.fns.usda.gov .

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