Missouri residents facing economic hardship rely on federal assistance programs like the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) and Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (Summer EBT) to ensure their children have access to nutritious meals outside of school. However, accessing these vital benefits has proven challenging for many families in the state. This blog aims to shed light on the difficulties of administering and accessing P-EBT and Summer EBT in Missouri, highlighting the need for improved systems and communication to ensure families get the nutrition support they are eligible for.
Understanding P-EBT and Summer EBT
P-EBT extends support to families with children who lost access to free or reduced-price meals at school due to Covid-related absences, virtual learning and school closures throughout the 2021-2022 school year. On the other hand, Summer EBT helps families cover summer food costs for those that are eligible for free and reduced-price school meals, ensuring children continue to receive essential nutrition outside of school. Missouri relied on data provided directly from schools to determine student eligibility. Therefore, families did not need to complete an application for school year 2021-2022 P-EBT or 2022 Summer EBT.
2022 Administrative Delays Disrupt 2023 Benefits
Many families are still waiting for their 2021-2022 school year P-EBT and 2022 Summer EBT. According to sources within the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), administrative challenges such as understaffing, outdated systems, and coordination problems between agencies have delayed the distribution of last year’s benefits to families. Administrators pointed out that because they were so behind and still working on getting 2022 benefits distributed, Missouri is not opting to provide 2023 Summer EBT benefits, leaving families in a state of uncertainty and economic strain.
Preparing for Permanent Summer EBT
Summer EBT was recently made a permanent federal program that states must opt into yearly. It is important Missouri develops a strong administrative system for families with low incomes to have future access to funds that help cover groceries throughout the summer. Addressing the barriers to accessing Summer EBT benefits requires collective action and collaboration. Advocacy organizations, nonprofits, community leaders, and policymakers must work together to advocate for system improvements, streamlined administrative processes, and enhanced outreach initiatives. Contact your state representatives to let them know Missouri families need permanent Summer EBT and Missouri departments need the resources and support to administer benefits to families on time. Together, let’s advocate for change, uplift those in need, and build a stronger Missouri.
Still Waiting for Benefits?
If you think you are eligible for 2021-2022 School Year P-EBT or 2022 Summer EBT benefits and still have not received them, you can contact your child’s school or school district to confirm they have your correct mailing address and that they have submitted their data to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). You may also visit DESE’s website for more information on the program.
