Bay District Schools has announced its guidelines for free and reduced-price school meals for the 2026-2027 school year and encourages eligible families to apply.
Students who attend schools participating in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program will continue to receive breakfast and lunch at no cost. However, families whose children attend non-CEP schools may qualify for free or reduced-price meals based on household size and income. Applications may be submitted at any time during the school year.
To qualify for free meals, a family of four must have an annual household income of $42,900 or less. A family of four may qualify for reduced-price meals with an annual household income of up to $61,050. Eligibility is determined using federal income guidelines that take into account household size and total gross income.
Families participating in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) or TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) may qualify through a simplified application process. Foster children are eligible for free meal benefits regardless of household income. Additionally, children identified as homeless, migrant, or runaway may qualify for free meals.
Meal benefit applications will be sent home to families and are also available at each school's front office. Applications must be completed in full before eligibility can be determined. Once approved, benefits remain in effect for the entire school year.
Families are encouraged to apply if they believe they may qualify, as meal eligibility can also help determine eligibility for other educational programs and services.
For additional information or assistance with the application process, families may contact the Bay District Schools Food Service Department at (850) 767-1170.
2026-2027 Income Eligibility Highlights
Free Meals
Family of 1: $20,748 annually
Family of 2: $28,132 annually
Family of 4: $42,900 annually
Family of 6: $57,668 annually
Reduced-Price Meals
Family of 1: $29,526 annually
Family of 2: $40,034 annually
Family of 4: $61,050 annually
Family of 6: $82,066 annually
Families can review the complete income eligibility guidelines and application information through the Bay District Schools Food Service Department.