In summer 2024, Minnesota will launch Summer EBT, a new grocery benefits program that provides families $120 for each eligible school-aged child to buy groceries when school is out. Summer is a time when many children lose the free and reduced-price meals they get at school, and when households might need a little extra help putting meals on the table. Most families will get these benefits automatically, but some parents will need to apply. The new program is in addition to free meals that kids of all ages can get at summer meal sites in their communities.
Eligibility: Children are eligible for the program if: • the household already participates in SNAP, MFIP, FDPIR, TANF, Foster Care, or Homeless, OR• the child attends a school that offers the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program and the household income meets the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals.
Enrollment: Many families will get Summer EBT automatically if they are getting other benefits, but some families may need to apply. • If the household already participates in SNAP, MFIP, FDPIR, TANF, Foster Care, or Homeless, they will be automatically enrolled in the Summer EBT program. Households do not need to fill out an application. • If the household is not automatically enrolled and may be eligible, they can get Summer EBT by filling out a simple application.
How Summer EBT Works: The benefits will be provided on a separate S-EBT card, and can be used to buy groceries. Families will receive $120 per eligible child for the summer. Benefits can be used at authorized retailers, like grocery stores and farmers markets, to purchase healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, meats and other protein sources, whole grains, and dairy.
To learn more about filling out an application, checking on automatic enrollment, making sure your contact and mailing information is updated to ensure a smooth outcome, you can contact Lori Bannor at 218-335-2204 x 6001 or lbannor@isd115.net.