ithaca

School Meal Applications and District Support

Ithaca Schools

November 3, 2025

Hello Families,

We here at Ithaca have been informed that November payments for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as FoodShare in Wisconsin, may continue to be delayed if the government shutdown continues. We wanted to make sure everyone knew options during this time.

School Meal Applications and District Support

Important: Submitting the free/reduced application, even if your child doesn't eat school meals, can help your school receive additional funding for educational enhancements. We strongly encourage all families to apply. The forms can be found HERE (https://www.ithaca.k12.wi.us/page/free-and-reduced-measl-2025).

  • Current Eligibility: Please be assured that students currently receiving free meals due to FoodShare eligibility will continue to qualify for the entire school year, regardless of the delay. Once certified, eligibility remains constant.

  • Federal Employees: Federal employees can submit a Household Application for Free and Reduced-Price Meals now, using their current household income (which may be zero while furloughed).

  • Have questions? We will have a table out Wednesday night at Parent Teacher Conferences and are happy to offer assistance with the forms and questions. 

Meal Programs and Local Assistance

  • Breakfast: If you qualify after filling out the form, breakfast will also be free. 

  • Free Snacks: Our elementary students are offered free snacks in the afternoon that we find local donations for. If you are interested in donating, please email heather.dickey@ithaca.k12.wi.us.

  • Weekend Backpack Program: We will be sending out more information about this program this week.

  • Second Harvest Mobile Food Pantry: Comes every third Thursday of the month. You can find the calendar here: https://www.secondharvestsw.org/mobile-food-pantry-calendar/

Additional Information and Support

For information on how the shutdown is impacting FoodShare and to find other sources of food assistance, please visit the official page: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/foodshare/news.htm.

At any time, your child's classroom teacher can be a connection to the resources you may need. Ithaca is committed to the well-being of our students, and food security is an important component of learning for all.

We are here to support our students and families during this time.