 We
Feed The Future
Difficult economic times have affected many families
in Sarasota County, and have touched the lives of our most precious
resource – our children. In response, the Department of Food and
Nutrition Services wants to respectfully remind all parents,
guardians, school administrators, teachers, and especially, students
of the availability of free and reduced priced meals. These meals
are wholesome, nutritionally balanced, and provide a variety of
nutrients for growing bodies and fuel for the academic day.
Some parents and students have been reluctant to apply for meal
benefits, believing that others might find out that they receive
meal benefits. We are exceptionally cautious about keeping this
information confidential. All students, paid, free, and reduced
priced status, enter their 5-digit PIN to receive meals. No meal
status is reflected on the cashiers’ computer screens and at no time
is the child asked about their meal status in the serving line.
Other parents have expressed concern about applying for meal
benefits, voicing concern about using a service they have not used
in the past, or that they need only temporarily. Temporary meal
benefits are granted to families who qualify, and rest assured that
parents who have paid federal taxes have helped support this vital
program throughout the years.
Students eligible to receive free meal benefits are also eligible to
receive free or reduced priced breakfasts. Research has shown that
an adequate breakfast meal improves test scores
If you have questions about the application process or would like to
complete an application, please contact the Food and Nutrition
Services Manager at your school, or call the FNS Central Office at
486-2199. For fastest service, please feel free to visit us at the
FNS Central Office at 101 Old Venice Road in Osprey, FL. We must
receive a completed, original application, with a parent’s or
guardian’s signature and cannot accept faxes.
Food and Nutrition Services remains committed to the children,
adolescents, and young adults of our school district and our
community. In truth, “We Feed the Future.”
Sincerely,
Beverly L. Girard, MBA., MS, RD
Director of Food and Nutrition Services
The School Board of Sarasota County, Florida
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Lamarque Elementary School
3415 Lamarque Avenue
North Port, Florida
34286
941-426-6371 Office
941-426-6392 FAX 429-5687 Child Care Office
