LINCOLN- A child nutrition program poised to launch nationwide on a permanent basis could deliver an estimated $18 million in grocery-buying benefits to Nebraska families next summer. While that’s an encouraging prospect to child welfare advocates and struggling families, state government officials first must decide whether to opt into the new Summer EBT program for children.

That has yet to happen — and a looming federal government deadline has some advocates antsy. “If they do nothing there is going to be more child hunger, more stress on the emergency food distribution network in our state, which already is stressed,” said Eric Savaiano, food and nutrition access manager at Nebraska Appleseed, a nonprofit that combats poverty and discrimination.

The program would offer an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card to children whose household income makes them eligible for free and reduced school lunches during the school year. Each youth would receive a card loaded with $120 to help buy food during months that school is out. Intent to participate must be notified by January 1st, 2024.

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