WWPS qualifies for free meals program

Walla Walla Public Schools qualifies for free meals program for all students

This week Walla Walla Public Schools received confirmation from the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, it qualifies to offer free meals this year for all students and families under the Federal Community Eligibility Provision program.

The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) permits all enrolled children in school districts to eat breakfast and lunch at no charge once a district’s free lunch population exceeds 40%. Walla Walla Public Schools’ free rate is nearly 45%.

“The Community Eligibility Provision benefits all of our students by improving access and removing barriers to healthy and nutritious meals for all students,” said Nutrition Services Director Pamela Milleson.

Last year, Congress approved a waiver to provide free meals for every student in U.S. public schools, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That waiver expired June 30. Washington State responded with a solution. The legislature passed House Bill 1878, providing support to ensure the program would continue for all districts whose free lunch percentage exceeds 40%.

For more information, contact Nutrition Services at (509) 527-3016 or by email: nsdept@wwps.org