M E M O R A N D U M

IM-26  2/6/01  FREE & REDUCED SCHOOL LUNCHES FOR GAFP


SUBJECT:
FREE AND REDUCED SCHOOL LUNCHES FOR GRANDPARENTS AS FOSTER PARENTS
 
DISCUSSION:
The purpose of this memorandum is to clarify the process of receiving free and reduced school lunches for participants of the Grandparent As Foster Parents (GAFP) Program.

The following information was received from the Director of School Food Services, which is under The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

TAPE MATCH

According to federal regulations, if a school age child has a DCN and is receiving from the TANF Block Grant they are categorically eligible for free lunches.  A tape match between DESE and DFS identifies these children who receive Temporary Assistance.  If a child's name appears on the tape match, they do not have to apply for free or reduced lunches.  GAFP children are included on the tape match.  The tape match is run one time a year in July.

APPLICATION FOR FREE AND REDUCED LUNCHES AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETION

Children, who are approved for GAFP prior to the tape match of July 2001 must file an application called "Meal Benefit Form for Free and Reduced Price School Meals" through the school.  A copy of the application is attached. 

GAFP children who will not appear on the tape match will need to fill out the following sections of the application:

  • Complete Section 1 - Student Data
  • Complete Section 2 - Enter 8 Digit Number (DCN) under the Temporary Assistance NO. column
  • Complete Section 5 - Signature of Adult Household Member
It is not necessary for the participant to explain under what subprogram of Temporary Assistance they receive, such as GAFP.  They only need to know they receive Temporary Assistance funding and have a DCN.
 
NECESSARY ACTION:
  • Discuss this memorandum with all appropriate staff.
  • Discuss application for free and reduced price school meals with GAFP participants.
GZ
Distribution #6
FORM NOT AVAILABLE ON-LINE; HARD COPY ONLY


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