NAUGATUCK — The Naugatuck public school system announced its policy for determining eligibility for free or reduced-price meals under the national school lunch and school breakfast programs.
The income guidelines (pictured in the graph above) will be used in Connecticut from July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016 for determining eligibility. Children from families whose income is at or below the levels shown are eligible for free or reduced price meals. Application forms are being sent to all homes with a letter to parents. They can be filled out a returned to the school. Additional copies are available at the principal’s office at each school. Applications may be submitted at any time during the year.
No application is required if the district directly certifies a child based on a household member receiving assistance from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or Temporary Family Assistance program. Naugatuck households receiving SNAP benefits or TFA for their children should only submit an application if they are not notified of their eligibility by Sept. 30.
If a child is not directly certified, the household should complete a free and reduced price meal application form. Households receiving assistance under the programs will be notified of their eligibility, and their children will be provided free benefits unless the household notifies the school that it chooses to decline benefits.
When known to school officials, households will be notified of any child’s eligibility if the individual child is categorized as either homeless, runaway as defined by law, or enrolled in an eligible Head Start, Even Start or pre-kindergarten class as defined by law. For any child not listed on the eligibility notice, the households should contact the district or school.
Foster children that are under the legal responsibility of a foster care agency or court are eligible for free meals. If the foster family is not eligible for free or reduced price meal benefits, it does not prevent a foster child from receiving free meal benefits.
Naugatuck school principals or their designees will review applications and determine eligibility. Parents can discuss the decision with the official on an informal basis, or request a formal appeal either orally or in writing to Robert Butler, Business Manager, 380 Church St., Naugatuck, CT 06770 or (203) 720-5265.
If a household member becomes unemployed or if household size changes at any time, the family should contact their school to file a new application.
