INDIANAPOLIS — Back to school is just around the corner, and it's the first time in about two years the federal child nutrition waiver is not in place.
That means parents could have to pay for school lunches.
The previous program was offered as a form of COVID-19 relief, giving all students free lunch and breakfast.
Even though it won't be offered this year, the free and reduced lunch program is still in effect in the Hoosier state, but parents must apply to take part.
It's something schools across the city say is important to offer.
"We never want t kid to go hungry, we are always going to feed a kid. But we also need to make sure we are working without parents to make sure they are taking care of their balance on that stuff as well," Wes Anderson with Southern Hancock County Schools said.
At a time when pretty much everything is at an all-time high, parents say they're grateful they can qualify for free school lunches.
"I don't have to worry about my kid going hungry because I knew they would have that food at school to fall back on," Sara Helton, who utilizes the free lunch program, said.
To learn more on if you qualify for free and reduced lunch and to apply, click here.
-
Conner Prairie to host America 250 events, including Star Spangled Symphony
Friday and Saturday’s Fourth of July festivities include performances from the Symphony on the Prairie and many other activities to tell the history of the United States.
CarmelFest kicks off celebrating America's 250th, Carmel's 50th
CarmelFest 2026 kicked off Friday afternoon. This year’s celebration not only marks America’s 250th birthday but also the 50th anniversary of Carmel officially becoming a city.
A holiday heat advisory with storms possible
An Extreme Heat Warning expires at 8 PM EDT this evening. A Heat Advisory then goes in place through Saturday evening.
Pacers rookie Braden Smith excited to play in Pacers uniform for the first time
New Pacers second-round draft selection and former Purdue standout Braden Smith is set to play in a Pacers uniform for the first time when the NBA Summer League begins next week.
