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Summer EBT program gives families extra food dollars while school is out

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ATHENS, Ohio (WOUB) — Children who get free breakfast and lunch during the school year no longer have to worry about where to eat during the summer break.

A woman shopping in a grocery store. Families can spend EBT funds at authorized grocery stores, markets and retailers.
Families can spend EBT funds at authorized grocery stores, markets and retailers. [Madison Moore | WOUB]
Summer EBT, a new program, provides families with $120 per eligible child for the summer. Families can spend the funds at authorized grocery stores, markets and retailers.

The program has its roots in the pandemic, helping children receive funds for food when schools were shut down. Valerie Addis, public relations coordinator at Hocking Athens Perry Community Action, said the success of that program led to the summer EBT program.

“I think they’ve just understood how much of an impact that had on families and wanted to continue it and just see what changes they can make to make it sustainable for the future,” Addis said.

Households that already receive reduced or free lunches are automatically enrolled in the program. Other benefit recipients who receive SNAP, Ohio Works First or Medicaid assistance are also automatically enrolled.

Eligibility checks and applications can be found at sebt.ohio.gov.