ELKO — There are options for families whose children who rely on school meals for the bulk of their nutrition, state officials said.
“The Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer Program supports families across Nevada by providing a one-time lump sum payment of $120, to support children and close food access gaps when school meals aren’t available during the summer,” said Molly Moser, a Nevada Department of Health and Human Services spokesperson.
“Families receive a pre-loaded benefits card that can be used at most grocery stores to purchase food, giving them flexibility and dignity in choosing what they need,” she said. Cards arrive by mail, typically in around two or three weeks.
“Children who are already enrolled in certain school meal programs or receiving SNAP/TANF may qualify automatically. Families who aren’t sure about their eligibility, or who didn’t qualify automatically, can apply now through the Access Nevada portal,” she said.
In 2024, the program provided $37 million in food assistance to Nevada, with around 80% of benefits used.
“Summer can be a tough time for families who count on school meals,” Moser said. “This program helps fill that gap.”
Aug. 10 is the deadline for applications. To learn more, visit the DWSS Summer EBT webpage.
