Free school breakfast and lunch

School Food | NYC Department of Education (DOE)

Food Grade-Schooler Pre-Teen Teen

Students in every New York City public school can get free breakfast and lunch. Delicious, nutritious, and culturally relevant meals are available to students each day.

  • Families no longer need to fill out applications to qualify for free meal benefits.
  • You may be asked to complete a family income inquiry form to help schools receive funding.

How to get help

Other Food Programs

Food and Nutrition Info

NYC Department of Health

Tips for planning healthy meals

See nutrition tips and strategies for planning healthy meals on a budget.

Community Food Connection (CFC)

NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA)

Food from pantries and community kitchens

Free food from food pantries and community kitchens.

Summer Meals

NYC Department of Education

Free summer meals for children and young adults

Get free breakfast or lunch at schools, community pool centers, parks, and food trucks near you during the summer.

Updated December 18, 2023