In a significant move to support low-income families during the summer months, New York City has announced the launch of the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program. Starting in July 2024, eligible families will receive $120 per child to assist with grocery expenses when school is out of session. This initiative aims to bridge the nutritional gap that many children face during the summer break.
Understanding the Summer EBT Program
The Summer EBT program is designed to provide financial assistance to families whose children rely on school meals during the academic year. With schools closed for the summer, many children lose access to regular nutritious meals. The $120 benefit per child is intended to offset this loss, ensuring that children continue to have access to healthy food options.
According to the New York City Department of Social Services, most households with eligible children will receive these benefits automatically. The funds are expected to be issued starting in mid-July 2024 and will continue through October 2024. These benefits can be used like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to purchase food at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other SNAP-authorized retailers.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for the Summer EBT program primarily includes children enrolled in New York City public schools from kindergarten through 12th grade as of June 2024. These students will automatically receive the $120 summer food benefit. Families do not need to take any action if their children are already enrolled in public school.
However, some families may need to apply for the benefits. For instance, if your child is not enrolled in a public school or if there have been changes in your household circumstances, it’s advisable to check your eligibility status. Applications are currently available, and the deadline for submission is September 3, 2024.
How to Apply
For families required to apply, the process is straightforward. Applications can be accessed through the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) website. The application will require information about your household, including income details and the number of children. It’s essential to provide accurate information to ensure timely processing of benefits.
Once the application is submitted, families can expect to receive the benefits on their existing EBT cards. If you do not have an EBT card, one will be issued to you upon approval of your application. For any questions or assistance with the application process, families can contact the OTDA directly.
Utilizing the Benefits
The $120 per child benefit functions similarly to SNAP benefits. Families can use their EBT cards to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers. This includes grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers markets that accept EBT payments. It’s important to note that these benefits are exclusively for food purchases and cannot be used for non-food items.
To check your family’s P-EBT food benefit balance, you can visit the ConnectEBT website or call 1-888-328-6399.
Additional Support Programs
In addition to the Summer EBT program, New York City offers other resources to support families during the summer months. The Summer Meals program provides free meals to all children aged 18 and under, regardless of income or residency status. Meals are available at various locations, including schools, parks, and community centers, from June 27, 2024, through August 30, 2024. No registration or identification is required to participate.
Families are encouraged to take advantage of both the Summer EBT and Summer Meals programs to ensure their children have access to nutritious food throughout the summer.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Summer EBT program reflects New York City’s commitment to supporting families and addressing food insecurity among children during the summer months. By providing $120 per child, the city aims to alleviate the financial burden on low-income families and ensure that all children have access to healthy meals when school is not in session. Families are urged to check their eligibility and apply promptly if necessary to benefit from this essential program.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
