California is one of many states to partner with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) on its Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program.
The big picture: The USDA’s Summer EBT program is intended to help tackle child hunger when schools are closed.
- This upcoming year will be the first year for the program, which will provide grocery benefits to families with eligible school-aged children during the summer months.
- The USDA expects over 29 million children to benefit from the program, which should reduce food insecurity and help children get the nutrition they need.
- Congress passed legislation in 2022 to launch the Summer EBT program.
- Eligible families will receive $40 per child each summer month.
What they’re saying: “Summer EBT provides an unprecedented opportunity to reduce child hunger during the summer months,” said Cindy Long, administrator of the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.“ FNS is thrilled to see trailblazing states and tribes step up and make early commitments to expanding summer nutrition benefits for children in their communities. We look forward to working with all states and eligible tribal nations on this important effort – helping ensure children across our nation get the nutrition they need year-round.”
