How do I complete the FARMs application if my income varies?
List the amount that you normally receive. If you normally get overtime, include it. If you have lost a job or had your hours or wages reduced, use your current income.
Who in my household do I include in my FARMs application?
You must include all people living in your household, related or not, such as grandparents, other relatives, or friends, who share income and expenses. You must include yourself and all children who are living with you. If you live with other people who are economically independent, do not include them.
Will the information I submit on my FARMs application be verified?
Yes. You may be asked to send written proof by the Office of Food and Nutrition Service.
I lost my FARMs eligibility notice. How can I obtain a another one and apply for other benefits?
Eligibility notices should be kept for the entire school year in order to apply for additional benefits. Call the Food and Nutrition Service Office at 410-313-7134 to request a copy.
My family situation has changed. Should I submit a new FARMs application?
Yes. Families whose household situations change may submit a new FARMs application at any time during the school year.
What criteria are considered in determining FARMs eligibility?
Applications are evaluated solely on the number of household members and gross income – no other circumstances can be considered. If you believe your gross income (amount before deductions) is at or less than the maximum income limits for your household size that is listed in the Income Eligibility Guidelines, you should contact the Food and Nutrition Service Office to be certain that you have completed your application correctly.
Are all families required to submit a FARMs application?
No. Only families/households who need assistance and fall within the federal Income Eligibility Guidelines should apply. Applications are automatically sent home with every student on the first day of school. Guidelines are printed on the front of the application to help parents/guardians determine if they might qualify for the program.
Do I have to submit a FARMs application every year?
Yes. Families must apply every year to determine their eligibility in the FARMs program. Federal Income Eligibility Guidelines change every year, and it is likely that most household situations change each year. To avoid interruption in meal benefits while new applications are processed, student eligibility is carried over temporarily from the previous school year until the new application can be processed in September of the new school year.
If I have multiple children, how many FARMs applications must I submit?
Only one FARMs application is required per family/household. All children must be listed on one application, whether you complete a paper application or submit an online application.
I would like to apply for the FARMs Program, but am concerned that my student may be embarrassed if the teachers or other students learn that we need assistance. How can this be avoided?
Student/family FARMs eligibility is confidential. HCPSS will only discuss student eligibility with students, parents, guardians and cafeteria managers. All HCPSS schools currently use a Point of Sale (POS) system in cafeterias. All students must enter a six digit (6) PIN number in the POS system to pay for meals. By using this system, students do not know if a classmate’s lunch was pre-paid, free or reduced price.