New Hampshire Expands Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer Program to Support Families
Concord, New Hampshire — The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), through its Division of Economic Stability, has announced the continuation of the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program for the upcoming summer. This initiative is designed to provide financial assistance for grocery purchases to families with eligible school-aged children, ensuring that nutritional needs are met during the summer months when school meal programs are not operational.
For the second consecutive year, New Hampshire will receive funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to support the Summer EBT program. This program specifically targets families whose children are enrolled in schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program and who are eligible for free or reduced-price meals. The initiative aims to address food insecurity by providing each eligible child with 0 per summer. The program not only eases the financial burden on families during a time when school meals are unavailable but also assists in promoting the health and well-being of children during critical developmental months.
The significance of the Summer EBT program cannot be overstated, particularly in the context of rising living costs and economic challenges faced by many households. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, approximately 14 million children in the United States live in food-insecure households—representing a significant public health issue. By supporting families with additional grocery benefits, New Hampshire’s initiative aims to mitigate these concerns and ensure that children have consistent access to nutritious food.
Families interested in participating in the Summer EBT program must meet specific eligibility criteria. Eligible children include those from lower-income households who depend on school meal programs throughout the academic year. This proactive approach by the DHHS reflects a growing recognition of the vital role nutrition plays in the health and academic success of children.
Overall, the continuation of the Summer EBT program marks an essential step towards enhancing food security and supporting public health initiatives throughout New Hampshire. As the program unfolds in the warmer months ahead, both health officials and community leaders are hopeful that it will make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families across the state. The ongoing commitment to addressing food insecurity underscores the importance of collaboration between state agencies and federal support in providing resources to those in need.
