Food Services » California Universal Meals Program

California Universal Meals Program

California Universal Meals Porgram
 

For decades, school meal programs across the United States have played a vital role in supporting student health and academic success. These efforts began with the establishment of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) in 1946, followed by the School Breakfast Program (SBP) in 1966. Both were created to help students access nutritious meals during the school day.


Beginning in the 2022-2023 school year, California became the first state in the nation to implement a Universal Meals Program. This legislation, known as AB 130, requires public schools serving grades TK through 12 to provide one free breakfast and/or lunch per day to any student who requests one, regardless of household income.


What This Means for HBCSD Families

At Hermosa Beach City School District, all enrolled students are eligible to receive one free breakfast and/or lunch each school day. No application or income verification is required to receive meals.


The Universal Meals Program helps make sure every student has access to the food they need to stay focused, energized, and ready to learn and thrive.


Why We Encourage Families to Apply

Although meals are provided at no cost, the program is funded through state and federal reimbursements based on household income information. By submitting a Free and Reduced-Price Meals Application, you’re helping HBCSD to:


  • Access the full level of available funding for school nutrition programs
  • Receive up to $2,000 per eligible student to support enrichment programs like our Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) for grades TK-6.
  • Helps keep the Universal Meals Program strong and fully funded for future years

When and How to Apply

Applications for the 2025-2026 school year open on July 1, 2025. Families may apply at any point during the school year. If your financial situation changes due to job loss, a change in household size, or if you begin receiving CalFresh, CalWORKS, or FDPIR benefits, you are encouraged to submit or update your application.


Ways to apply:


Important Note: To be considered, all required fields on the application must be completed.


Application Review and Verification

Eligibility for free or reduced price meals is based on household size and income that falls within the Income Eligibility Guidelines. School officials may verify application information at any time and may request documentation.


Need Help?

If you have questions or need help with the application, please contact Luis Cuevas, Food Services Supervisor, at [email protected].