Salem, Oregon – The deadline to apply for the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program has been extended to September 30, 2024 in an update for families across Oregon. When school-based food programs are not available, this extension is meant to help families control summer grocery expenses.
Originally with a closing application date earlier throughout the year, the Summer EBT program benefits eligible children significantly at $120. This program seeks to close the nutritional difference that could arise during school breaks. Under cooperation with the Oregon Department of Education (ODE), the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is leading this initiative and advises families to check their eligibility and apply immediately.
Having started on June 28, 2024, the initiative has effectively given over 336,198 qualified youngsters $40.3 million in food assistance. The ODHS reports that while some of these families received new cards by July, more than 60 percent of them were able to access their benefits immediately using current Oregon EBT cards.
Families engaged in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or those members of the Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) with incomes below 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level qualify for the Summer EBT. Children under foster care also automatically qualify for the benefits. Families whose children registered in the National School Lunch or Breakfast Programs during the 2023–2024 academic year and did not get benefits automatically should also take into account applying.
“Staying engaged in school and active in life requires proper nutrition,” said ODE Director Dr. Charlene Williams. “We know that there are many more families out there who have children who may be eligible for the $120 Summer EBT benefit and this important extension boosts our opportunity to reach them.”
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Families who would want to apply or verify their eligibility are advised to visit the special website at sebt.oregon.gov or call the Summer EBT Call Center. Reachable at 833-ORE-SEBT (833-673), the call center runs Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time.
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For qualified families, this extended application time offers a great chance to make sure they have the ability to feed their children and provide healthy and nutritious food. ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht expressed gratitude towards federal partners for the extension and urged eligible families to act promptly.
“The extra time is so important for us to reach families who may be eligible because we know access to nutritious food is critical.”
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