Gloucestershire County Council says 591 additional children are now receiving free school meals after introducing an auto-enrolment system.
The scheme identifies eligible pupils who were not previously registered, with families given the option to opt out.
Officials say the move could save families up to £500 per child each year and help improve concentration in school.
Councillor Linda Cohen, Gloucestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “Every child deserves the chance to learn, grow and thrive, and provision of a healthy meal at school plays a vital part in that.
“By automatically enrolling children who are already entitled to free school meals, we are removing barriers for families and making sure support reaches those who need it most.
“This work is helping families save money, supporting children to do well at school, and securing vital funding for our schools. It is a practical example of how the county council is taking action to tackle inequality and support children and young people across Gloucestershire.”
It is also expected to bring around £1.6 million in extra funding to schools through schemes such as the Pupil Premium.
The council says the initiative helps ensure children receive support they are entitled to while tackling inequality across Gloucestershire.