New eligibility guidelines for free and reduced school lunches are being released and low-income families are encourage to apply to the program.
Income limits are set each year and Roxanne Ramage with the Illinois State Board of Education says the breakfasts, lunches and after school snacks help make sure students don't go hungry.
Many families receiving public aid will automatically be enrolled for free meals.
Schools can help other households apply at any time during the school year. Just one application per household is needed if all kids are in the same school district.
Ramage says parents should check to see if their school district is participating.