Big Sky Times

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) and the Office of Public Instruction (OPI) have commenced the distribution of cards for a new Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (Summer EBT) program. The initiative, funded with over $9 million, aims to assist qualified families in Montana.

"The Summer EBT program helps ensure low-income Montana children have access to healthy and nutritious food, and we appreciate the partnership with OPI to help make this program a reality for communities across our state," said DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton.

Eligible families will receive $120 per child through the Summer EBT, with card issuance already underway via mail. Alongside the cards, families will receive educational materials detailing benefit usage.

According to DPHHS officials, Summer EBT is a novel program for Montana. A list of participating stores is accessible on the OPI website and will be regularly updated.

Each household will receive one card that can carry benefits for multiple children.

"The Summer EBT program focuses on supporting our Montana students," stated Superintendent Elsie Arntzen. "Montana is leading the nation through our innovative Direct Certification Program, which creates a more efficient process for families. I am thankful for the strong partnership between my agency and DPHHS."

Congress permanently authorized Summer EBT on December 23, 2022, with Montana being among the first states to announce participation.

The program offers grocery benefits to low-income families during June, July, and August when schools are closed. This year's benefits are issued post-summer with federal approval.

The federally funded benefits adhere to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program rules and are applicable only for in-person purchases at approved retailers.

Summer EBT targets students eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program or those directly certified.

Research indicates that providing summer grocery benefits decreases child hunger and supports healthier diets. The U.S. Department of Agriculture previously tested Summer EBT as a demonstration project, showing it reduced very low food security among children by about one-third.

DPHHS leads federal implementation efforts while sharing responsibilities with OPI. The latter manages applications, eligibility validation, and client communication. Meanwhile, DPHHS oversees card issuance, usage management, fraud investigations, budget oversight, and reporting to USDA.

Further information about Summer EBT is available online at mt.gov or by contacting the hotline at (406) 444-0044 or emailing S-EBT@mt.gov.