a school lunch is shown next to text that says "Free Lunch Program Expires"

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the USDA provided free breakfast and lunch for all school children. Unfortunately, the free meals program expired in June, 2022. 

For the 2022-23 school year, paid lunches at Owen D. Young will be $2.75 and breakfasts will cost $1.50.

ALL families are strongly encouraged to fill out an application to qualify for free or reduced-price meals - even if you think you don’t qualify. There are important family benefits for those who participate in the National School Lunch Program, which is often referred to as the Free & Reduced-Price Lunch Program (FRPL).

When our families are eligible for FRPL program, the following can also be accessed:

· Free or reduced-cost AP, SAT, ACT exam fees

· Free or reduced-cost college application fees

· Free or reduced costs for college courses taken in high school

· Discounted home internet service from Spectrum (Click here for details

Also important to know is that our full participation in the FRPL program also benefits the district because it helps to accurately report the demographic makeup of our community. The amount of state aid the district receives each year is based in part on how many students qualify for the FRPL benefit. In addition, the district can receive state and federal grants based on this information.

Please find a letter below from Kate Door, Food Services Director for Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES, as well as an application for the National School Lunch Program. If you are unable to print out an application, please call the main office at Owen D. Young Central School at (315) 858-0729 and arrange to pick up a copy, or have one mailed to your home.

Complete only one form for your household. Sign your name and return it to your school building office or the OHM BOCES School Food Service Office, ℅ Perry Jr. HS, 9499 Weston Rd. New Hartford, NY 13413. Call (315) 738-048 if you have additional questions.