Nearly 10 million children across the United States may face increased food insecurity in the coming summer as the deadline of January 1 approaches for states to decide whether to participate in the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program. This program, also known as SUN Bucks, offers $120 per child for purchasing food during the summer and serves as a crucial support for families with school-age children.
A total of $1.14 billion in federal aid is at risk of being turned away by a dozen GOP-led states, which could potentially deprive millions of children of essential nutrition. The Food Research & Action Center (FRAC), a nonprofit organization committed to combating hunger, has expressed concern over the potential repercussions.
Crystal FitzSimons, interim president of FRAC, emphasized that summer can be a challenging time for children when it comes to access to food. She highlighted the importance of funding as an opportunity for states to address this issue and ensure that children have the necessary nutrition to grow, thrive, and be prepared for the upcoming school year. FitzSimons also emphasized that solutions like Summer EBT should be utilized to prevent any child from experiencing hunger during the summer months.
States poised to decline federal aid
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The Summer EBT program is currently being planned to be implemented in 12 states, namely Idaho, Alaska, Wyoming, South Dakota, Iowa, Oklahoma, Texas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida. On the other hand, there are states, including Washington, D.C., U.S. territories, and various Native American tribes such as the Cherokee and Chickasaw Nations, that have also expressed their commitment to this initiative.
The FRAC highlights the program’s remarkable effectiveness, pointing out its success in bridging the gap for 21 million children across 37 states last summer. By providing financial assistance directly to families, SUN Bucks reduces the strain on food banks and meal distribution centers, which often struggle to meet the increased demand during the summer months when school meal programs are not available.
Bipartisan support for Summer EBT
Polling data reveals that despite lacking widespread name recognition, there is strong bipartisan support for the program once individuals become aware of its benefits. A poll conducted by Data for Progress demonstrated that voters from various political backgrounds expressed their support for the proposal after being informed about its advantages. This widespread support highlights the program’s potential to unite Americans in their shared goal of eradicating childhood hunger.
Advocates stress the nonpartisan nature of hunger and call on states led by the GOP to prioritize the well-being of children over political considerations.
“States should consider Summer EBT as an obvious choice, especially given the increasing cost of food and the challenges faced by families trying to make ends meet,” FitzSimons emphasized. “It is unacceptable for any child to go hungry during the summer months, and no parent should have to bear the burden of worrying about how to feed their children. The consequences are too significant for states to ignore this issue.”
A call to action
Advocacy groups like FRAC are increasing their efforts to persuade state officials to change their stance as the January 1 deadline approaches. They argue that in states with high rates of poverty and food insecurity, the benefits of participation far outweigh any perceived negative consequences.
Obtaining food can be particularly challenging in areas where people already face numerous obstacles.
Millions of young people are finding hope and opportunity through this initiative, which serves as a pathway to a brighter future rather than just a safety net. Advocates are urging governors to put aside political differences and prioritize the well-being of their citizens.
The broader impact
If the 12 states proceed with their plan to opt out, it will have implications beyond just individual households. Food banks, which are already facing challenges, may experience increased demand. Additionally, local businesses may miss out on the economic benefits generated by this federal funding. Moreover, communities could suffer from a ripple effect, as the money allocated through programs like Summer EBT is often spent on buying food within the local area.
Advocates believe that by rejecting these funds, we are essentially missing out on a valuable opportunity to support families during a time of great need.
South Carolina also chose not to participate in the program during the previous summer. Democratic lawmakers in South Carolina strongly criticized Governor Henry McMaster for his choice to opt out of the program.
State Senator Deon Tedder (D-Charleston) expressed concern earlier this year over the governor’s decision to reject the funds without consulting the legislature. He highlighted the unfortunate consequence of South Carolina not participating in the program, which would leave thousands of children hungry during the summer.
The decision of these GOP-led states to potentially opt out of the Summer EBT program raises significant concerns about the government’s role in addressing poverty and hunger.
As the deadline approaches, the decisions made by state officials will have a profound impact on millions of children and their families. It is clear to supporters that no child should have to go hungry, especially when there are readily available solutions.
It remains to be seen whether these states will heed that call.
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