USDA Expands Assistance to Reach Children Over the Summer

In a press release on Monday, April 26, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the American Rescue Plan would fund an expanded Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) program. The summer months often prove to be difficult for low income families, because students no longer have access to school meals, and summer meal programs don’t always reach the students that need them. Expanding P-EBT benefits will support those families that are in need of nutritious food during the summer and amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

USDA shared what key stakeholders are saying about this additional assistance.

Diane L. Golzynski, PhD, RD
Director of the Office of Health and Nutrition Services Michigan Department of Education
“Having the extension of Pandemic EBT through the summer months will be a game changer for some families. Most especially those with limited income and transportation options. What we have learned with other summer benefit programs is that summer is especially difficult for families to reach meal distribution sites. Therefore, providing funds for food purchases in a manner that is most convenient to the family is the best alternative. Michigan is thrilled to continue this partnership with the USDA and providing these benefits to our families. We are stronger together; especially when we support our families in greatest need.”

To see what more stakeholders are saying, take a look at this USDA document.

This is an important step in addressing childhood hunger and supporting those in need.