Federal shutdown may delay SNAP benefits; food support resources available

Dear Robbinsdale Area Schools families and staff,

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced that the Federal Government shutdown will affect SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits. We know this may create concern for some in our community, and we want to share resources that can help.

Free school meals

All students can receive one breakfast and one lunch at no cost each school day through Minnesota’s Free School Meals Program. No application is required.

Apply for Educational Benefits

Completing the Educational Benefits application may qualify families for additional support such as reduced fees for activities, discounted internet, and SUN Bucks (up to $120 per eligible child for summer groceries). Families who receive SNAP automatically qualify. Learn more at rdale.org/edbenefits.

Community food support

If your family is experiencing an urgent food need, please contact your school principal or counselor, family and community specialists, or school climate and culture specialists. You can also visit our website to see a list of available food banks and food resources. Additional family resources are available here.

How you can help

Local partners such as PRISM (Golden Valley) and NEAR Food Shelf (Crystal/New Hope) welcome donations at prismmpls.org and nearfoodshelf.org.

Thank you for looking out for one another and supporting students and families in our community.

In partnership,

Robbinsdale Area Schools