The current state of the economy has led to an increased use of free and reduced lunch programs in the DeKalb School District.

Mary Schyvincht, food services treasurer of DeKalb School District 428, said, “over the last couple of years there has been an increase in people using the lunch programs.”

Schyvincht finds the economy to be the reason for more people taking advantage of the program.

“In all likelihood, it is due to loss of jobs and having to apply for food stamps because of it,” she said.

Jim Briscoe, superintendent of DeKalb School District 428, agrees with Schyvincht that the economy and job market are to blame.

In order to qualify for the free and reduced lunch programs, there are requirements that need to be met.

“Parents that are on food stamps and receive a letter saying they are eligible for the free lunch program can take advantage of it by filling out an application,” Schyvincht said. “If parents don’t receive a letter they can take part in the reduced lunch program based on their income.”

Not only are there free and reduced programs, but there is also a free breakfast program.

“If any school in the district has 40 percent or more students eligible for either program, it is mandatory by the state for there to be a breakfast program,” she said.

The free and reduced lunch programs are not the only way students can get help.

“Students eligible for the free lunches get free school registration and those eligible for reduced lunches pay only half of their registration fees,” Schyvincht said.

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