The Iowa Department of Education and the Bureau of Nutrition and Health Services have announced their eligibility guidelines for free and reduced price meals for the 2020-2021 school year. The income qualifications are broken down into household size and income. For example, a family of four would qualify if they make less than $34,060 per year. This is an increase from last year. Households that are considered food assistance households or are under the Family Investment Program (FIP) will be eligible for free or reduced meals at school, but may need to fill out an application to the student’s school. Foster children are also eligible for free meal benefits through this program. Those households not part of food assistance programs can also qualify for free or reduced price meals if their household incomes are at or below the income levels. Families who are unsure if they qualify for free or reduced meals should contact their school for more information.