Austin ISD continues providing free meals and seeks community support for families in need

Austin Independent School District (Austin ISD) is continuing its efforts to support students and families facing food insecurity. The district provides breakfast and lunch every school day, as well as afterschool meals at many campuses.

According to Austin ISD, “Students who qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are still eligible for free school meals until the end of the school year, whether or not the government funds food benefits for home.” The district also states that it will “provide free breakfast and lunch to all students.”

Families can apply or reapply for free or reduced-price meals at any time by picking up a paper application at their school.

For those needing additional food assistance outside of school, community partners are available. Individuals can call 2-1-1 or (877) 541-7905 to speak with a live operator who can help connect them with local resources.

A number of Austin ISD schools offer free meals to all students. These include Uphaus Early Childhood Center; elementary schools such as Allison, Barrington, Blackshear, Blanton, Boone, Brown, Campbell, Cook, Cunningham, Dawson, Galindo, Govalle, Graham, Guerrero-Thompson, Harris, Hart, Houston, Jordan, Joslin, Kocurek, Langford, Linder, McBee, Menchaca, Norman-Sims, Oak Hill and others; middle schools including Bedichek and Burnet; high schools such as Akins ECHS and Crockett ECHS; as well as other campuses like Alternative Learning Center and Rosedale School.

Community members interested in supporting Austin ISD families may make donations through the district’s education foundation. Funds raised are distributed directly to families in need. The district encourages checking with individual campuses for information about campus-based donation drives.

The information was also provided in Spanish for greater accessibility: “Entendemos que algunas familias podrían estar teniendo dificultades para obtener la comida que necesitan ahora. El Austin ISD está aquí para apoyar a los estudiantes todos los días con el desayuno y el almuerzo…”