400,000 Minnesota Kids Expected to Receive Extra Help With Food Benefits

(KNSI) — Minnesota has been approved for another round of funding under the federal Pandemic Electronic-Benefits-Transfer initiative.

In the coming days, many families with young children dealing with food insecurity should see some financial aid to help get them through the rest of the summer. Tikki Brown, assistant commissioner of children and family services at the Department of Human Services, said the latest aid distribution is very timely.

“With inflation and with gas prices and just rising expenses, many families will feel an extra burden when trying to feed their family during the summer months.”

For qualifying households, money is loaded onto EBT debit cards that can be used at grocery stores and farmers’ markets. More than 400,000 Minnesota kids are expected to receive extra help with food benefits.

Brown says this latest burst of funding could help with service gaps in areas like central Minnesota, and “especially in rural parts of our state, where access might be an issue or transportation might be an issue, this electronic benefit provides a lot more access and ease in buying food for families.”

Pandemic EBT aid goes to families with young children eligible for existing programs, including free or reduced-price school meals. Details and applications can be found on the Department of Human Services website by clicking here.

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MNC Reporter Mike Moen contributed to this story.
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