Wednesday, October 29, 2025

Pasadena Unified Confirms School Meals Will Continue Should Any Federal SNAP Disruption Occur

The Pasadena Unified School District will continue serving breakfast, lunch, and supper to students enrolled in its schools and after-school programs, even as federal food assistance faces a potential shutdown.

In an email statement issued to the local public school community, PUSD addressed concerns stemming from national reports that approximately 42 million Americans—one in eight people nationwide—will not receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits starting Nov. 1 if the federal government shutdown continues. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the funding lapse would mark the first such disruption in the program’s 60-year history.

“We recognize that the potential gap will cause significant challenges for some of our most vulnerable children and families,” the district said. “We are providing information about local resources.”

PUSD confirmed that its meal services remain unaffected. Thousands of students across Pasadena schools will continue receiving breakfast and lunch during the school day, and supper through after-school programs.

The district also partners with the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank’s BackPack Program. Once a month, participating students receive a backpack full of food, including canned goods, dry goods, pantry staples, fresh produce, and bread. The program is available at Madison, Longfellow, Eliot, Blair, and Washington schools. Families must enroll through their school’s community advocate or assistant to participate. Additional information is available through the district’s Health Programs office at healthprograms@pusd.us.

PUSD is joining leaders, nonprofits, and community partners to collaborate, pool resources, and coordinate efforts to support families. The district said it will continue sharing updates as more resources become available.

Additional food access options are available through the Los Angeles County Office of Education and Los Angeles County Parks’ Food Programs, which have expanded services for youth, teens, and seniors.