Dear CPS Community,
As of November 1, there is a strong possibility that residents who are eligible for SNAP benefits will not receive these benefits. This is a result of the ongoing government shutdown. SNAP benefits are not expected to resume until the shutdown is over.
We want to share some important reminders and action steps that we are preparing to support our students and families.
Free Breakfast and Lunch for ALL Students
- All Cambridge Public Schools students are eligible for FREE breakfast and lunch, regardless of household income.
- All schools serve freshly cooked, balanced meals with vegetables, fruit, and hot and cold entree options.
- If your student has not previously eaten school breakfast or lunch, they are still able to use this option. Students do not need to sign up in advance. Any student may eat breakfast, lunch, or both each school day.
- You can find school food menus for the month of November, here.
Additional Community Support for Families Eligible for SNAP Benefits
- We are working with the City of Cambridge and community partner organizations to find additional ways to support families who are eligible for SNAP benefits. We will share information as it becomes available.
- Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline has counselors available in 180 languages. Counselors can help you find food assistance through other sources. You can click this link or call 1.800.645.8333 to access the hotline.
- The Cambridge Food Resource Guide (available in many languages) contains the times and locations for food pantries, community meals, farmers’ markets, and more.
- You can still apply for SNAP benefits during the shutdown. The Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) will process applications, and benefits may be distributed once funding resumes.
- State programs such as TAFDC, EAEDC, and WIC are not impacted by the federal shutdown and will continue to operate as usual unless otherwise noted.
We also want to update you that we are currently not able to provide many of our beef entrees as part of our school meals, due to a national beef shortage. This is not directly related to the government shutdown. Students will continue to receive free, balanced meals daily that include other available protein options.
If you have any questions about food services in CPS, please visit our webpage, email [email protected], or call 617.349.6858.
Sincerely,
David Murphy
Superintendent
Damon Smith
Interim Chief Operating Officer
Anthony Grein
Food Service Director