The Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) Emergency School Meals Program will again be offered in 2021 to eligible families. P-EBT was launched in Spring 2020 by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) in partnership with the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services as a new and temporary food benefit to help families buy groceries due to COVID-19 school closures.
Any family with a child in grades K-12 who is eligible for free or reduced-price school meals—including children who go to a school where meals are free for all students--can get P-EBT. Eligible families receive an EBT card (much like a debit card) which they can use to buy food in any SNAP-certified store or online (i.e., Amazon and Walmart). EBT cards are sent to eligible households using the mailing address listed in Skyward.\r\n
\r\nTo be eligible for P-EBT, households need to apply and qualify for free or reduced-price school meals through the district or be directly certified through the state. \r\n
\r\nIn anticipation of the implementation of the updated P-EBT program in 2021, now is a good time for families to submit an application for free or reduced price meals to see if their children qualify. The application process for free or reduced-price school meals is simple and confidential. There are no citizenship requirements for participation, and immigration status is not requested or disclosed. \r\n
\r\nHouseholds that have experienced a change in income due to job loss or other circumstances are especially encouraged to apply.\r\n
\r\nUse the following links to apply for and learn more about Free/Reduced Price school meals. This and other information can also be found on the Food Services page of the Ridgefield School District website.\r\n
\r\n2020-21 Household Application for Free and Reduced Price Meals - ENGLISH\r\n
\r\n2020-21 Household Application for Free and Reduced Price Meals – SPANISH\r\n
\r\n2020-21 Letter to Households – ENGLISH\r\n
\r\n2020-21 Letter to Households - SPANISH\r\n
\r\n\r\n Did you know that students who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals may be eligible for decreased course fees, athletic fees, ASB activity fees and CISPUS fees? A signed Parental Release of Information Form is required.