Children from families whose income is at or below the levels shown are eligible for free or reduced price meals.

Application forms are available at the District Food Service office and at every District school. The information provided on the application is confidential and will be used only for the purpose of determining eligibility and verifying data. Applications from families receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (formerly known as "food stamps") need only to list the children's names, 7-digit SNAP  number (SNAP number begins with "1B..."; QUEST card numbers are not acceptable), the last 4 digits of an adult household member's social security number (or a mark in the box if no SS number), address and phone number, and the signature of the adult household member.

All other households who would qualify based upon income must show the names of all household members, the amount of income each person received last month and source, the frequency of earnings, the signature of an adult household member and that adult's social security number or check the box if the adult does not have a social security number. The information on the application may be verified by the program officials at any time during the school year.

In most cases, foster children are also eligible for these benefits. If a family has foster children living with them and wishes to apply for meals, they should contact Lola Campos-Herzfeld, 720.561.5942, at the Food Services office.

Under the provision of the Policy, the applications will be sent into the District Food Service office to review and determine eligibility. If a parent is dissatisfied with the decision, a request may be made to discuss it with the determining official. A formal appeal may be made either orally or in writing to the Food Service Director for a hearing to appeal the decision. The policy contains an outline of the hearing procedure.

If your eligibility is based on the receipt of SNAP benefits and you no longer qualify, you must fill out a new application. Applications may be submitted any time during the school year. If you are not eligible now but have a decrease in income, become unemployed, have an increase in family size, or become eligible for SNAP benefits, you may fill out an application at that time.

The District Food Services office has a copy of the complete policy which may be reviewed by any interested party.

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.  20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.