As the school year winds down and summer nears, we all want to keep children healthy while school is out. Unfortunately, a federal waiver allowing the free meals through the school district expired in 2022. However, P-EBT summer nutrition benefits may be available for some students, and other privately-funded options remain through alternative sources.
Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) is part of the U.S. government response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through P-EBT, eligible school children receive temporary emergency nutrition benefits loaded on EBT cards that are used to purchase food. Children who would have received free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Act if their schools were not closed or operating with reduced hours or attendance for at least 5 consecutive days are eligible to receive P-EBT benefits. Click here for more information about summer P-EBT benefits.
Other available local food options
Starting June 1, the Grant County Ministerial Alliance will provide nourishing meals for children under 18 in Grant County with food insecurity. They will make weekly deliveries of non-perishable food on Thursdays through August 3. The food may also be picked up at the First United Methodist Church at 100 E. Church St. in Sheridan every Thursday during that time-frame from 10-11 a.m. or 5-6 p.m. To register, email SheridanSFP@gmail.com with the number of children and their ages. They also need to know if you plan to pick up or need delivery. If you prefer pick-up, please provide your pick-up time preference. If you need delivery, please provide your address.
For Saline County students, local food banks near you include Lorance Drive Church of Christ (501-888-1253) and East Union Missionary Baptist Church (501-888-2633). Grace Church (501-888-1195) in East End is also a resource for those with food insecurity. Please contact the respective churches for details.
For more summer meals sites go to: https://www.fns.usda.gov/meals4kids