INDIANAPOLIS — Back to school is just around the corner, and it's the first time in about two years the federal child nutrition waiver is not in place.
That means parents could have to pay for school lunches.
The previous program was offered as a form of COVID-19 relief, giving all students free lunch and breakfast.
Even though it won't be offered this year, the free and reduced lunch program is still in effect in the Hoosier state, but parents must apply to take part.
It's something schools across the city say is important to offer.
"We never want t kid to go hungry, we are always going to feed a kid. But we also need to make sure we are working without parents to make sure they are taking care of their balance on that stuff as well," Wes Anderson with Southern Hancock County Schools said.
At a time when pretty much everything is at an all-time high, parents say they're grateful they can qualify for free school lunches.
"I don't have to worry about my kid going hungry because I knew they would have that food at school to fall back on," Sara Helton, who utilizes the free lunch program, said.
To learn more on if you qualify for free and reduced lunch and to apply, click here.
-
Indy animal rescues see increase in abandoned dogs around the holidays
Lucci’s House is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of Bully Breeds in Indianapolis with a network of 73 foster homes. This year, 157 dogs were taken in, of those 87 were from IACS.
Indy homeless shelters see record numbers amid frigid temps
Local homeless shelters are seeing an increased need this year as colder weather drives more of the unhoused community to seek shelter.
Carmel residents reflect on affordability as city looks back on 2025 progress
Carmel has been ranked the number one place to live in the nation for 2025 by neighborhood search site Niche, as the Hamilton County city continues to attract new residents.
One year later, Sheridan adds 2,000 residents after township reorganization
The small town of Sheridan has grown by 2,000 residents after successfully merging with Adams Township, but critics say tax increases could be on the way.
