Texas recently failed to secure federal funds for the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program, leaving 3.8 million children vulnerable to food insecurity during the summer. This program, crucial for families relying on school lunches, provides monthly grocery benefits to combat hunger during school breaks. Unfortunately, Texas has now missed this critical support for two consecutive years.
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Why It Matters
Hunger among children is already a pressing issue in Texas, a state with one of the highest food insecurity rates in the U.S. According to Feeding Texas, nearly 23% of children in the state experience hunger. This is alarming, especially when compared to the national food insecurity average, as Texas is almost 5% higher. For low-income families, the Summer EBT program would have been a lifeline, providing $120 per child monthly during summer breaks.
The failure to meet federal deadlines directly impacts the well-being of Texas’ children. Advocates like Brian Greene, CEO of the Houston Food Bank, emphasize that food insecurity leads to developmental delays, poor health, and long-term educational setbacks. This, in turn, can hurt the future workforce and the state’s economic growth.
Food Insecurity
Texas’ food insecurity problem is not new. The USDA’s data for 2021-2023 shows that Texas ranks second in the nation for food insecurity prevalence. The issue disproportionately affects children, with many families depending on free or reduced-price school meals to meet their nutritional needs.
The Summer EBT program, expanded in 2022, was designed to address precisely these challenges. It provided an estimated $450 million in aid to eligible Texas families, bridging the gap when school meal programs are unavailable. By missing the deadline for two consecutive years, Texas has left millions of dollars in potential aid on the table.
| Food Insecurity Statistics | Texas | U.S. Average |
|---|---|---|
| Children Experiencing Hunger | 23% | 18% |
| Overall Food Insecurity Rate | 16% | 11% |
Impacts
Failing to implement the Summer EBT program puts immense pressure on food banks and nonprofits, which already operate at capacity. Local organizations like Feeding Texas and the Houston Food Bank must now step in to fill the gap. But these efforts alone cannot match the scale of support that federal funding would have provided.
The $450 million that could have benefited Texas families in 2024 would have supported thousands of children during their most vulnerable time of the year. Without this aid, families will struggle to afford basic groceries, further widening the hunger gap in the state.
The Way Forward
While the state missed the federal deadline for 2025, advocacy groups like Feeding Texas are urging lawmakers to act. The Texas Legislature has until March 1 to direct the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to implement the program. Advocates argue that prioritizing children’s well-being is a moral obligation and an investment in the future.
Public pressure is mounting, with calls for policymakers to recognize the importance of programs like Summer EBT. If Texas fails to act again, millions of children will continue to face hunger, while the state risks long-term developmental and economic consequences.
Protecting children from food insecurity is not just about filling bellies—it’s about building a stronger, healthier, and more prosperous Texas. Let’s hope that the state seizes this opportunity to make a difference.
FAQs
Why did Texas miss the Summer EBT deadline?
Texas chose not to participate in the program for two consecutive years.
How many children are affected?
About 3.8 million kids in Texas rely on school meals and are now at risk.
What does the Summer EBT program offer?
It provides $120 per child monthly for groceries during summer breaks.
How much aid was lost due to missing the deadline?
Texas forfeited an estimated $450 million in benefits.
Can Texas still implement the program?
Yes, lawmakers have until March 1 to guide HHSC for the 2025 launch.
