Across West Virginia schools are seeing an increase of students needing free or reduced meals. And Wood County is no different.

Director of Food Services in Wood County Beverly Blough is seeing the increase first hand, "Even though the economy hasn't been hit hard we are still seeing the number of people using the benefits. And I expect it to continue at this rate."

Wood County schools say more than 13,000 students are now enrolled in the free or reduced meal program.

Wood County schools Superintendent Bill Niday says the economy is not the only reason for the increase.

Niday, "The closed campus at the high school, have more students now eating at the high school level and eating in the high school cafeteria."

If you are interested in having a free or reduced meal for your child you can stop by the Wood County Board of Education and fill out an application. The process is confidential.