Countdown to Summer!


14 million U.S. children  -- one in five -- live in households that struggle against hunger. Child hunger soars during the summer when traditional school meals are unavailable.


For the first time ever, many states throughout the country will participate in the brand new Summer EBT program, which will provide eligible families with $40 per month per child – a total of $120 per child for the summer – on an EBT food benefit card. These benefits, combined with other federal nutrition programs, will help ensure children’s access to healthy food while school is out.

At HFA, we’re working hard to ensure that all eligible families know about this new program and are able to access these crucial benefits.


Your donation will directly impact the lives of children and families in need, providing them with crucial resources and support to build a brighter future.


Advocacy Corner: SNAP in the Farm Bill


Last month, the House Agriculture Committee advanced a Farm Bill proposal that would, according to the Congressional Budget Office, take away $30 billion in SNAP funding. Hunger Free America fiercely opposes this proposal, which would take away life-saving nutrition assistance from tens of millions of food insecure children, working people, veterans, people with disabilities, and older Americans.


We urge you to contact your House Representative and US Senator and implore them to reject any Farm Bill that cuts SNAP funding!


AmeriCorps VISTAs in Action


The Anti-Hunger Corps is a national AmeriCorps VISTA project sponsored by Hunger Free America. As one of the largest national service programs in the US, our members work at community based nonprofits to identify and implement sustainable solutions to ending hunger and to identify barriers, implement sustainable solutions, and build organizational capacity to further the anti-hunger mission.

Last month, we visited some local VISTA sites to speak with our AmeriCorps VISTA members and learn more about what they do. We got to hear from Lorraine and Kaitlyn, two VISTAs who are dedicating their time and energy to help fight the U.S. hunger crisis.


Summer EBT is Here to Stay!


Beginning in Summer 2024, families will receive $40 per month per eligible child – a total of $120 for the summer – on an EBT food benefit card. These benefits, combined with other federal nutrition programs including SNAP, WIC, and summer meal sites, help ensure children’s access to healthy food while school is out.

Currently, 35 states have applied, and been approved, for the 2024 Summer EBT program

If your state is not on the list, contact your governor and demand that your state state opt into Summer EBT in 2025!


Gearing Up for Summer Meals



In addition to Summer EBT, kids of all ages can also eat meals and snacks, at no cost, at schools, parks, and other neighborhood locations during the summer months.


Every child aged 18 and under can enjoy these meals, and some rural communities now offer meals to-go.


Learn more about Summer Meals (now called SUN Meals by the USDA) and find out where these meals can be accessed.



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