Apply Now: Free and reduced-cost meal program offers more than just a meal
Apply Now: Free and reduced-cost meal program offers more than just a meal
A federally-funded program exists to eliminate or offset the cost of school meals for qualifying families. Families who think they may qualify should apply for the free and reduced-cost meal program. Students in this program receive numerous benefits, beginning with one breakfast and one lunch combo meal daily for their free or reduced-cost price.
SPECIAL UPDATE: For the 2025–2026 school year, students approved for free OR reduced-price meals will receive meals at no cost!
Meal prices (for those not a part of the free or reduced-price program) have been updated for 2025-2026 and can be found here.
MORE THAN JUST A MEAL
Did you know that qualifying for the free and reduced-cost meal program has benefits beyond breakfast and lunch? Students who qualify for the program in Northwest ISD could be eligible for the following benefits:
- Eligible for weekend snack packs
- Assistance with summer camp fees
- Free school supplies and backpack at NISD Back-to-School Fair
- Eligible to be part of NISD Angel Tree program
- Free textbooks for dual credit courses
- Free OnRamps tuition
- Discounts on Advanced Placement exam fees
- Eligible for SAT and ACT fee waivers
HOW TO APPLY
Families can apply online or with a paper application. Online applications are processed the fastest and the application status is typically available within 48 hours after completion.
Paper applications are available on NISD’s website and can be returned via email, fax or in person at your student’s campus or the district food services department.
A new application must be completed each school year. Those who previously were accepted into the program will have a 30-day grace period to reapply. After 30 days, only students who submitted a new application this school year and qualified for the program will receive free meals.
QUESTIONS?
Many frequently asked questions can be found on NISD’s website. If you need additional assistance, please contact Yen Brown, Free or Reduced Program Specialist, by phone at 817-698-1091 or via email at yen.brown2@nisdtx.org.