Each summer, millions of children across New York lose access to free school meals, leaving a vital nutrition gap when school is out. This year, Governor Kathy Hochul announced a $189 million infusion through the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program, offering essential food support to nearly 1.6 million children and aiming to reach 2 million by season’s end.
- Funding reaches nearly 2 million children statewide.
- $120 per child provided via EBT cards for summer meals.
- Program supports local economies and combats food insecurity.
What happened
On July 1, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that $189 million had been distributed through the Summer EBT program to nearly 1.6 million low-income children in New York. The benefits, amounting to $120 per eligible child, can be used much like SNAP at grocery stores and farmers markets. Families already enrolled in SNAP, Public Assistance, or Medicaid received the funds automatically, while others have until September 8 to apply online.
This initiative aims to tackle the long-standing gap children face when free school meals are unavailable during summer months. Projections estimate that around $240 million will be distributed eventually to benefit approximately 2 million children by the end of the season, reflecting the state’s commitment to addressing childhood food insecurity beyond the school year.
Why it feels good
The Summer EBT program not only helps reduce very low food security among children by about a third, according to USDA studies, but also provides critical relief to families struggling with rising costs. By delivering funds directly to families, the program empowers them to purchase nutritious food conveniently within their neighborhoods, supporting both parents and local businesses alike.
Advocates emphasize that this structured approach addresses a systemic issue: millions of children lose access to government-funded meals once schools close for summer. With additional funding secured for hunger prevention programs and universal free school meals, New York is working toward a future where no child has to face hunger during or after the school year.
What to enjoy or watch next
Families who have not yet received summer benefits have until September 8, 2026, to apply for the program online. Community members and supporters are encouraged to spread awareness about the Summer EBT initiative, ensuring maximum participation and impact. Watching how this funding flows through local markets also presents an encouraging example of how targeted aid can stimulate neighborhoods sustainably.
As federal nutrition programs face uncertainties, New York’s proactive investments—including $51 million for hunger prevention and expanded support for food banks—are worth following. These efforts together light a hopeful path toward broader food security measures, demonstrating how state-level leadership can make a difference in the lives of children and families year-round.