State Delays Could Cost Texas $450 Million in Food Assistance for Kids

The deadline for Texas to opt into a federal program that provides food aid to address child hunger is quickly approaching, with activists concerned that the state may miss out on $450 million in food benefits for the second year in a row.

The state has until January 1 to submit a notice of intent to join in the 2025 Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program, which gives $120 per eligible school-aged kid to assist families purchase groceries over the summer.

Celia Cole, CEO of Feeding Texas, a network of 20 food banks throughout the state, underlined the program's importance. "When Texas didn't participate last summer, over 3.5 million Texas kids missed out on vital nourishment," she told me.

Texas officials had cited insufficient preparatory time and a lack of legislative money as grounds for not taking part in 2024. This year, advocates are concerned about similar delays, as the Legislature does not reconvene until mid-January, and administrative costs must be funded by March 1.

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is making work in preparing for the program, but it has yet to announce whether it will reach the deadline. Advocates like as Cole emphasize the significance of action, noting that child hunger increases during the summer when school meals are unavailable.

"This program doesn't just nourish kids—it boosts local economies," Cole explained, citing a potential $11.2 million benefit in Travis County alone.

Advocates hope lawmakers and state agencies will act quickly to ensure that no child goes hungry next summer.

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