For thousands of families across Volusia County, free and reduced-price school meals represent one of the most impactful forms of daily support available. The National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program serve nutritious meals to eligible children every school day.
How the Programs Work
Children approved for free meals pay nothing. Reduced-price meals cost no more than $0.30 for breakfast and $0.40 for lunch.
Income Eligibility Guidelines
| Household Size | Free Meals (Annual) | Reduced-Price (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18,954 | $26,973 |
| 2 | $25,636 | $36,482 |
| 3 | $32,318 | $45,991 |
| 4 | $39,000 | $55,500 |
| 5 | $45,682 | $65,009 |
| 6 | $52,364 | $74,518 |
Automatic Eligibility
Your child qualifies automatically if your household receives SNAP benefits, participates in TANF, or is enrolled in FDPIR. Children who are homeless, migrant, in foster care, or enrolled in Head Start are also automatically eligible.
Community Eligibility Provision Schools
Some schools in Daytona Beach serve free meals to every student regardless of income. Contact Volusia County Schools nutrition department to check.
How to Apply
- Obtain the application from your child's school or the district website
- List all household members
- Report gross income for each household member
- Provide identification (last four digits of SSN)
- Submit to the school or nutrition office
Processing typically takes a few days to two weeks.
Summer and After-School Programs
The USDA Summer Food Service Program operates free meal sites across Daytona Beach during summer break. No application or proof of income required at open sites.
Explore WIC benefits for additional nutritional support.
See What Benefits You Qualify For
Take our free 60-second assessment to discover programs that could save you thousands.
Start Free Assessment →Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to reapply every year?
Yes. Eligibility does not carry over. Submit a new application each school year.
Will applying affect my immigration status?
No. School meal programs are not considered in public charge determinations.
What if my income changes during the school year?
You can submit an application at any time during the year.
Can my child get free meals if we are temporarily staying with another family?
Yes, your child may be eligible under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act provisions.
