Hermiston K-8 students to receive free breakfast, lunch

Published 4:00 pm Tuesday, August 23, 2022

Beginning this fall, all Hermiston School District students enrolled at the elementary and middle schools may eat breakfast and lunch at no charge.

As part of The Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010, the Community Eligibility Provision, allows the nation’s highest poverty districts and/or schools to serve all students free meals without submitting household income information or completing an application.

No action is required by families for

their students to eat breakfast and/or lunch at the schools.

According to a press release from the school district, the provision eliminates the possible stigma associated with free or reduced price status because all students will receive the meals free of charge. Also, by offering all students a nutritious breakfast and lunch, more students will come to class well-nourished and ready to learn.

In addition, the program streamlines administrative requirements, saving the district time and money. While Hermiston High School didn’t qualify for the program, the district can reapply next year.

Students enrolled at the high school are eligible for one free breakfast per day. In addition, students may be eligible for the traditional free or reduced price lunch program by completing a family application or via direct certification. Students not qualifying for the traditional program will pay $3.50 for lunch.

For more information about the program, contact Briana Cortaberria, district communications officer, at 541-667-6010 or briana.cortaberria@hermistonsd.org. For questions about free or reduced price meals, contact Naomi Lopez-Navarrete in food services at naomi.lopez-navarrete@hermistonsd.org or 541-667-6026.