Qualifying families in New York City can still apply for the federal “Summer EBT Program,” where each eligible school-age child can receive $120 in food assistance that can be used to purchase groceries until September 8th.
The purpose of the “Summer EBT Program” is to help low-income families offset the increased food expenses during the summer break when free school meals are not available. Families already enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, or the Medicaid program usually automatically qualify, with the assistance being directly deposited into their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Families meeting income criteria but not automatically eligible can also apply by September 8th.
Additionally, the New York City Department of Education (NYC DOE) continues to offer free summer meal programs during the summer break. Children under 18 can receive free breakfast and lunch at designated schools, parks, pools, and libraries without the need to apply or provide identification. This program will run until September 4th, and parents can check nearby meal locations on the education department’s website: https://tinyurl.com/3ydcpe9b
“No Kid Hungry NY” organization mentioned that the summer break is often the most financially stressful period for many low-income families in terms of food expenses throughout the year. A recent survey revealed that about three-quarters of New York families have faced trade-offs between buying food and meeting other household expenses. Some caregivers even reduce their own food portions or save food until the end of the month to ensure that their children have enough to eat.
The organization highlighted the challenges this summer, with one of the reasons being the new work requirements imposed by the federal government on SNAP, where some adults may lose benefits if they fail to meet employment, volunteer service, or educational criteria. Over 22,000 New York residents have already lost SNAP benefits as a result.
The New York State government estimates that around 2 million children statewide qualify for the “Summer EBT Program” this year, with approximately $240 million in assistance expected to be distributed. The funds deposited in the EBT card must be utilized within 122 days, or they will expire.