Summer EBT program available for students

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) recently announced a Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (S-EBT) program to begin in the summer of 2024. The S-EBT program will provide families with eligible school-aged children $40 per month per child ($120 total) during the summer months to purchase healthy foods with funds on EBT cards.

What do I need to do to ensure my student receives S-EBT?

For MPS students already approved for free/reduced eligibility

• Ensure that your household contact information is up-to-date with the district, including parent or guardian name, address and phone number.  Contact your student’s school if updates are needed.

For MPS students whose household did not yet complete an Application for Educational Benefits:

• Complete an Application for Educational Benefits online on LINQ Connect. You will receive a letter in approximately 10 business days letting you know if your child qualifies for free, reduced or paid eligibility.  Only free or reduced students qualify for S-EBT benefits.
• Ensure that your household contact information is up-to-date with the district, including parent or guardian name, address and phone number.  Contact your student’s school if updates are needed.

For MPS students who are paid eligibility:

• Your student currently does not qualify for S-EBT benefits.  You are encouraged to complete a new Application for Educational Benefits online on LINQ Connect if your household income has decreased or your household size has increased since you completed your application, and to see if your student(s) now qualify for S-EBT benefits.

S-EBT Benefits will be distributed by the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota Department of Human Services during the summer months. Visit the MDE website for more information on S-EBT program.