As the federal shutdown continues, confusion has spread about whether programs such as the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) are affected. Despite disruptions to many federal agencies, school meals are still being provided without interruption. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed that schools will continue receiving reimbursement for breakfasts and lunches served under the NSLP and School Breakfast Program, even as other nutrition programs face funding uncertainty. 

Some social media posts have mistakenly linked the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) deadline and funding issues to school meals. However, these are two separate programs with different funding mechanisms and oversight. While SNAP provides direct food-purchasing assistance to eligible families, the school lunch and breakfast programs are administered through local education agencies and are currently protected from the shutdown’s immediate effects. 

In fact, some communities are encouraging furloughed federal employees to apply for free and reduced-price school meals during this period to help offset household food costs while paychecks are on hold. Eligibility for free or reduced-price meals is based on current household income, which can fluctuate during a furlough or job disruption. Families experiencing sudden loss of income can apply at any time during the school year, and approval can provide immediate relief. 

Educators and school leaders can help by reminding families that students will continue to have access to healthy meals at school, regardless of the federal shutdown, and that temporary changes in family income may qualify them for assistance. The continued stability of these meal programs offers some reassurance to communities already feeling the impact of suspended federal operations. 

Teachers, counselors, and school staff are often the first to notice when students or families are under added stress. During this shutdown, educators can play a key role by sharing accurate information about meal eligibility and encouraging families to contact their district’s nutrition services department for help in applying for free or reduced-price meals. A simple conversation can help ensure that no student goes hungry while their parents wait for the federal shutdown to end. 

For more information about free and reduced-price meal eligibility or how to apply, visit the USDA Food and Nutrition Service page. Texas districts can also refer to the Texas Department of Agriculture’s School Nutrition Program for state-specific guidance and resources.