Federal Formula Grant Award Summary

The Vermont State Agency of Education received a $12.75 million Formula Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service under the National School Lunch Program (CFDA 10.555), obligated on October 1, 2025, with completion by September 30, 2026. This award provides cash subsidies and USDA Foods to support the provision of nutritionally balanced, low-cost or no-cost lunches to school children across Vermont's public and nonprofit private schools and residential child care institutions. The funding enables participating schools to meet federal meal pattern requirements while offering meals at free or reduced prices to eligible children.

As the state administering agency, the Vermont State Agency of Education is responsible for determining school eligibility, reviewing written applications from school food authorities, and maintaining written agreements with participating institutions. The agency sub-awards portions of grant funds to local school districts, charter schools, and community entities to facilitate direct meal service delivery. Additionally, school food authorities may claim reimbursement for snacks served through approved afterschool programs that include educational or enrichment components. All participating schools and institutions must maintain comprehensive records of their nonprofit food service operations and ensure meals are available to all children regardless of race, sex, color, national origin, age, or disability.