Children of government employees who are not getting paid or furloughed may be eligible to receive free or reduced-price breakfast and lunches at school.

Round Rock ISD Food Services encourages households that experience a change in economic circumstances to apply for free and reduced meal benefits. Furloughed employees or employees required to work without pay qualify as a change in economic circumstance.

Affected parents can apply online. It’s easy and confidential,” said Food Services Director Kelly Grones. “When economic circumstances drastically change it can be worrisome. Knowing that their child(ren) can receive hot meals, fresh fruits and vegetables during the school day may help ease a parent’s worry.”

Students who are eligible to receive free and reduced meal benefits at school may do so until the end of the school year. Only one application per household is required and applications can be submitted at any time during the school year. Parents are required to reapply for free and reduced meal benefits each school year. Apply online or ask your school office staff for a paper application.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas has nearly 200,000 federal employees many of whom are forced to go without a paycheck until the government shutdown is resolved.