Submitted by Senator Rosalind Osgood
TAMARAC, FL –This summer, Florida has opted out of receiving additional funding for the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Program, a decision that could leave millions of children in the state, without proper nutrition. The Summer EBT Program aims to bridge the nutritional gap for low-income families during the summer months when school is out. Participating families receive $120 per eligible child, distributed as $40 per month for three months, to purchase food from different stores. By leaving the $250 million on the table, the state risks worsening Florida’s hunger population. In response, Florida State Senator Rosalind Osgood (D-Broward County) released this statement:
“I just cannot understand Florida’s continued efforts to hurt people and diminish the quality of life for those who are already struggling.
When children are out of school for the summer, it increases household budgets. Many poor families, especially those already struggling with food insecurity, need their EBT assistance to maintain their already disadvantaged living situation. Government entities must help people, not hurt them more.”
