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. Benefits of Summer EBT:
•  Helps parents and caregivers buy healthy foods for their children.
•  Gives families the flexibility to select foods that fit their culture and lifestyle.
•  Improves food security and diet quality for participating children.
Eligibility:
Children are eligible for the program if:
•  the household already participates in SNAP, FDPIR, TANF, etc. 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, FDPIR, TANF, etc. they will be automatically enrolledin 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.

To learn more about filling out an application, contact Judy Morinville at 218-465-4222.

How Summer EBT Works:
The benefits will be added to an existing EBT card or provided on a separate EBT card and can be used to buygroceries. 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.
Help Families in Your Community:
•  Spread the word to families in your community! Let households know about the new Summer EBTprogram.
•  Encourage families who receive benefits through SNAP, FDPIR, TANF, etc., to make sure their mailing address is up to date.
•  Tell families who are automatically enrolled to watch for their card in the mail; or watch for the balance increase ontheir existing card.
•  Inform households that immigrant and non-U.S. citizens are eligible for Summer EBT. Participation does not impact immigration status.
•  Encourage families who may have eligible children to apply.
•  Alert families to fill out an application at RLCC School by contacting Judy Morinville at 218-465-4222.


Children and teens need healthy food year-round to play, grow, and learn. Summer EBT will help families stretch their grocery budget during the summer and provide their children with the nutrition they need to thrive. Together, we can make summer brighter for our children.