Child Nutrition

Dear Perry Public Schools Families,

We know many families in our community count on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits (SNAP) to provide meals for their families. Unfortunately, due to the federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits will likely be temporarily interrupted, beginning Nov. 1. We understand this disruption may cause uncertainty, worry and financial burden for some members of our school family.

Please know those impacted are not alone; Perry Public Schools is here to help. We hope the following information will be beneficial to those facing difficulty during this challenging time:

• Students will continue to receive breakfast and lunch at school, based on their current eligibility status. If a family’s financial circumstances have changed for any reason, including government furloughs, parents can apply or update their free or reduced-price meal application by visiting www.perry.k12.ok.us/apps/pages/fra or by contacting the Child Nutrition office (901 Elm St) at 580-336-9900

• To assist with immediate needs, the following organizations will be holding food distribution events this week:

• Beautiful Restoration will be distributing groceries as well as free hot dogs, chips and water on a first come, first serve basis today, October 30th, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m at 10th & Fir by the Ice Machine. Perry Public Schools will have a representative available at this event from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to assist with free or reduced-price meal applications. 

• Noble County Family YMCA will be distributing free meals for students tomorrow, Friday, October 31st from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the YMCA annex (107 N. 7th St.) on a first come, first serve basis. Perry Public Schools will have a representative available at this event from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to assist with free or reduced-price meal applications.

• Parents can dial 211 on their phones to receive additional information about food banks, pantries and other community support programs across Oklahoma. In our area, the following food programs are available:

• Perry Food Pantry, 736 Elm, 580-370-6422

• Perry Food Pantry will have additional distribution days in response to this need. Keep updated with their latest distribution days and other community resources on their Facebook page. 

• Noble County Family YMCA, 107 N. 7th, 580-336-4411

• Perry Soup Kitchen, 727 Elm, 580-336-2776, meals distributed every Thursday at 5:00 p.m.

• Please visit the Perry Public Schools Community Resources webpage for a full listing of assistance resources available to families in our community. 

• Our school team stands ready to support anyone with questions or specific needs. Please contact your child’s site office or school counselor if we can assist your family. Counseling resources are also available for students who may be experiencing increased anxiety or concern.

• Oklahomans can learn more about how the government shutdown will affect SNAP benefits by visiting the Department of Human Services FAQ webpage. Those who need assistance and those who would like to support their fellow Oklahomans can find additional resources on the DHS “Be a Neighbor” webpage.

Although this situation is beyond our control, we can decide how to care for one another. Our school team is committed to keeping you informed and ensuring every student feels safe, secure and supported. 

Thank you for your partnership with Perry Public Schools.

Sincerely,

Chad Wilson

Superintendent

🍎 Meal Prices

Breakfast

• Full Price: $2.35
• Reduced Price*: $0.30
  

Lunch

• Full Price: $3.10
• Reduced Price*: $0.40
  

Adult Meals

• Breakfast: $2.47
• Lunch: $5.07
  
  

*Reduced prices are available to families who qualify through the Free & Reduced Meal Program.

🍎 Free & Reduced Meal Program – Apply Now!

Each year, families must complete a new Free & Reduced Meal Application to determine eligibility for the upcoming school year.

Completing the application is important for two reasons:

1. It can lower your meal costs (or make them free).
   
2. It helps our school receive additional state and federal funding for programs, services, and resources that benefit all students.
   
   

Even if you think you may not qualify, we encourage all families to apply.

🍎 How to Apply (Preferred Method: Online)

The easiest and fastest way to apply is through the Parent Portal:

• Log in, click the Student Records Portal button, and complete the application.
  
• This method speeds up processing and reduces paperwork.
  

Submit by September 15 to be approved by October 1.

Need help? Contact Emily Miner to schedule a time to receive assistance.

Other options:

• Paper applications are available at the Registrar/Child Nutrition Office (901 Elm St.) and at each school office.
  
• An online version is also linked on our district website.
  
  

If you already receive SNAP or Medicaid: You can qualify automatically—just provide your case number along with your child’s name, grade, birthdate, and your signature on the free and reduced application.

🍎 Extra Benefits for Eligible Students

Students who qualify for Free or Reduced Meals may also receive:

• SNAP benefits
  
• ACT & college application fee waivers
  
• Discounts on phone/internet service (Affordable Connectivity Program)
  
• Other financial assistance for school programs