The Austintown Local School District has announced on Friday that both breakfast and lunch will be free for all students during the 2024-25 school year.

According to a press release, students and families do not need to apply to receive these free meals. However, families are still encouraged to fill out an income form to qualify for other programs.

Austintown Fitch is one of many schools across the Valley to be able to offer free lunches to students thanks to the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP).

According to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, the CEP helps schools and districts in high-poverty communities meet eligibility to serve nutritious breakfasts and lunches to students at no cost to families.

A representative from the Austintown Local School District explained to 21 News anyone can apply for the CEP.

Extra and a la carte items will still be available for students to purchase. A la carte items include options like chips, pastries, fruits and more.

In the event that a student does not like or is allergic to what is being served for breakfast or lunch, qualifying alternative options are still available for a free meal.