Launch the media gallery 1 playerSummer EBT 2024
Summer EBT 2024 Letter (PDF)
In the summer of 2024, The State of Illinois, in partnership with the Illinois Department of Human Services and the USDA,will launch the Summer EBT program. A new benefit program that provides families $120 for each eligible school-aged child to buy groceries when school is out. Summer is a time when many children lose the free and reduced-price meals they get at school, and when households might need a little extra help putting meals on the table. Most families will get these benefits automatically, but some parents will need to apply. The new program is in addition to free meals that kids of all ages can get at summer meal sites in their communities.
Benefits of Summer EBT:
- Helps parents and caregivers buy healthy foods for their children.
- Gives families the flexibility to select foods that fit their culture and lifestyles.
- Improves food security and diet quality for participating children.
Eligibility:
Children are eligible for the the program if:
- The household already participates in SNAP, TANF, etc, OR
- The child attends a school that offers the National School Lunch or School Breakfast program and the household income meets the requirements for free or reduced- price meals.
Enrollment:
Many families will get Summer EBT automatically if they are getting other benefits, but some families may need to apply.
- If the household already participates in SNAP, TANF, etc, they will automatically be enrolled in the Summer EBT program and you do not need to fill out an application.
- If the household is not automatically enrolled and may be eligible, you can apply for the Summer EBT by filling out a simple application. This can be accessed through your Skyward Family Access or by paper application Meal Application - Summer EBT.
To learn more about filling out an application, contact Jaime Shultz at West Central School District by phone at 309-627-2371 or by email at shultz-jaime@wc235.k12.il.us.
Families in the West Central School District Community:
- Spread the word to your friends and family.
- Encourage your friends and family to make sure their mailing address is up to date with the school. The Summer EBT cards will be mailed to the address that is listed with the school district or they will automatically be added to the card you currently have.
- Encourage your friends and family who may have eligible children to apply for free or reduced-price meals.
