A Jupiter Nonprofit Is Helping Families Get Free School Meals

When Palm Beach County schools returned this fall, 75% of schools in the district began offering free meals to all students. But that left 55 schools out of the program — and for families at those schools, navigating the application for free or reduced-price meals on their own hasn't been easy.

The issue came to light when a teacher reached out to report that some students weren't eating breakfast or lunch because their parents didn't have access to the application or didn't know help was available.

El Sol stepped in.

El Sol, Jupiter's Neighborhood Resource Center, organized a community meet-up to connect families directly with volunteers who could guide them through the meal benefit application process. Volunteers sat with families, walked them through the paperwork, and helped them understand what they qualify for.

"I want to make sure that our families know that we are here for them. To support them in any way we can. We want to make sure that our children feel safe and have those meals that they need in school," said Veronica Martinez, Youth Development Coordinator at El Sol.

El Sol already offers employment assistance, after-school tutoring, health referral services, and weekend meals for children who participate in their summer camp. Helping families access school meal benefits is now part of that work too.

Casaundra Rodriguez, School Food Service Operations Manager for the Meal Benefits team at the School District of Palm Beach County, underscored why this matters.

"For a number of kids, this is the only meal they eat, is in school. So being able to serve breakfast, lunch, supper, snack — it really does provide that needed resource for the family," said Rodriguez.

How to apply or get help

Families at schools not covered by the free meals program can apply for free or reduced-price meals at myschoolapps.com. If you need help with the application, El Sol encourages families to reach out directly — no appointment needed.

"I want them to make sure they know that they can qualify for the services. Not to be afraid. We're here for that," said Martinez. "They can always reach out and we'll see them. We're there for them."

El Sol is located in Jupiter and serves the broader Palm Beach County community. Learn more at friendsofelsol.org.

Source: WFLX Fox 29
Image: WPTV