SUBJECT:
DISCLOSURE POLICY FOR THE NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM
DISCUSSION:
The purpose of this memorandum is to remind staff of the Food Stamp Disclosure policy. Per the Food Stamp Manual Section 1100.015.00 Disclosure, information obtained from food stamp applicants or EUs can be shared with other federal assistance programs, or federally assisted state programs which provide assistance, on a means-tested basis, to low income individuals. The National School Lunch Program is one of the programs for which information can be released.
Each July, the Family Support Division provides a computerized match of those children in Missouri between the ages of three (3) and nineteen (19) from families who are Food Stamp or Temporary Assistance participants. Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) and schools retrieve this information and certify for free meals those students enrolled in their school who participate in the Food Stamp or Temporary Assistance Programs.
Families who have moved or were not receiving Food Stamps or Temporary Assistance benefits when the computer match was run will require the local Family Support Division office staff to verify their participation in the Food Stamp or Temporary Assistance Program to be eligible for free school lunches. If a local school or LEA contacts the Family Support Division office, in writing or by fax, to verify information, provide the verification requested.
NECESSARY ACTION:
- Review this memorandum with appropriate staff.