As the new academic year approaches, the Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) have confirmed they will offer free school lunches to students for the 2024-25 school year, building on a commitment to provide nutritious meals to support student health and academics. This continuation of the "Meals at no charge" program, which began last year, ensures that families will not have to apply to qualify for free meals throughout the district, except for a few newer schools. According to FOX 35 Orlando, the program is made possible through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP).
Under the CEP initiative, the majority of OCPS students are automatically enrolled in the free meal program. However, exceptions exist at Atwater Bay Elementary, Luminary Middle, and Innovation High School, where families need to complete a Meals Benefits Application. These schools do not yet have the necessary student household data to attain CEP status, thus requiring families to take the additional step to ensure their children receive a free lunch, as detailed by WFTV.
The district is adamant about the impact of this program on its mission to prevent childhood hunger and bolster educational outcomes. "Our goal is to ensure that no child goes hungry and that all students have the nutrition they need to succeed," Mark Watson, OCPS Food and Nutrition Services Senior Director expressed in a statement, as reported by FOX 35 Orlando.
For parents and guardians of students at the three new schools needing to apply, the Meals Benefits Application is accessible online at myschoolapps.ocps.net or through the schools' websites.
