Who’s Eligible for Grocery Benefits, and How Do You Apply for Them?
Healthy food access is critical for a child’s health, growth, and development, and every year, millions of children throughout the United States face hunger—especially in the summertime when school meals are unavailable. Luckily, grocery benefits give families access to healthy food in the summertime when they might not have other options. If you are wondering if your child is eligible and how to apply for these benefits, this blog provides the information you need about food benefits eligibility, how to apply for these benefits, and what to expect after completing this process.
What Are Grocery Benefits?
Grocery benefits refer to government-funded programs designed to provide eligible families with additional food for their families, specifically their children. Generally, grocery benefits come in the form of an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, similar to a debit card, which can be used at participating grocery stores, farmers markets, and online retailers. In 2024, a key grocery benefit focus will be the Summer EBT program (currently called SUN Bucks in some states) to ensure that children who rely on school meals do not go hungry when school is out!
What is the Importance of these Benefits?
Millions of children receive free or reduced-price breakfasts and lunches during the school year through national programs. But when summer arrives, accessing these meals becomes harder. Many families can not afford to cover the additional costs of feeding children daily. These benefits enable families to purchase healthy, nutritious food—eliminating food insecurity and returning children to school prepared to learn and thrive.
Who is Eligible for Benefits?
1. Any Child who Gets Free or Reduced-Price Meals
If your child is in a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) that offers free or reduced-price meals, your child is most likely eligible for summer benefits.
2. If Your Child is Attending a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) School
Some schools offer free meals to everyone, regardless of their income level. If your child is enrolled in one of these programs, your child may automatically qualify for summer EBT or similar programs.
3. Children Who Are Eligible for SNAP or TANF
If your family is currently receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), your child may be automatically enrolled or potentially enrolled in summer SNAP benefits.
4. If Your Child is in a Foster Care Program or Migrant Program
Many children in foster care and potentially migrant programs or other special services are also eligible, even when they are not part of a school that offers free meals.
5. Low-Income Families Who Apply Separately
Depending on your state’s guidelines, you could still be eligible if your child does not get free school meals if you apply to demonstrate need.
How to Apply for Grocery Benefits?
Step 1: Check Your State’s Program Website
Each state runs its version of the summer grocery benefits program. Visit your state’s Department of Human Services or Education website to determine if Summer EBT or SUN Bucks are offered in your area.
Step 2: Determine If You Need to Apply
In some cases, eligible families are automatically enrolled based on school records or participation in SNAP/TANF. Other families may need to fill out a simple application to receive benefits. Your school or local outreach center may also help you determine this.
Step 3: Complete the Application
If required, complete the application online or submit a paper form. You may be asked to provide:
- Your child’s name and school information
- Household income and size
- Social Security numbers (if available, though not always required)
- Mailing address and contact details
The application usually takes just a few minutes to complete.
Step 4: Receive Your EBT Card or Funds
Once approved, you’ll receive a letter or email explaining the amount of benefits your child will receive. In most states, funds are issued on a preloaded EBT card or added to an existing one. Each eligible child usually receives around $120 for the summer (amounts may vary by state).
Step 5: Start Using Your Benefits
You can use your benefits at any store that accepts EBT, including major grocery chains, select farmers’ markets, and some online retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Be sure to check which items are eligible—typically, fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, and pantry staples are covered.
Conclusion
Grocery benefits are a lifeline for families in the summer, helping children access food when school is out. Grocery benefit programs not only provide nutritious meals but also provide families peace of mind with support in place for working parents and caregivers. If you think you might be eligible for grocery benefit programs, don’t hesitate to find out about your eligibility and apply. If you take a few minutes now, you could have a summer of healthy meals with reduced stress on your family. Every child deserves to grow up healthy and strong. Every parent deserves help feeding their children.
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