As our distinct participates in the National School Lunch Program, some of our families may qualify for Summer EBT, a new program that provides low-income families with food benefits to help cover the cost of groceries when school is out of session.
Families with eligible school-age children will receive $120 in Summer EBT food benefits per child in 2024. The benefits can be used just like SNAP benefits to buy food at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other SNAP-authorized retailers.
Children are automatically eligible for Summer EBT food benefits and don’t need to apply to the program if:
They receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or Temporary Assistance (cash) benefits, or are directly certified for free meals through Medicaid, OR
They are determined eligible for free/reduced price school meals by their school.
If your child does not meet the criteria above, they may still be eligible for Summer EBT food benefits if they apply and depending on family income.
For more information about the Summer EBT program and income thresholds, visit the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance website by clicking here. An application and instructions to fill it out will be posted on this website by July 1.