Summer program provides grocery support for Nevada children

As summer approaches and school cafeterias close, thousands of Nevada families will soon receive help putting food on the table through the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (S-EBT) program. On Friday, benefits began being distributed to children who qualify automatically under federal guidelines.

Many students rely on free or reduced-price school meals as a primary source of daily nutrition. Without access to school food programs during the summer months, food insecurity spikes among school-aged children. S-EBT fills that critical gap, offering $120 per eligible child in grocery support to help families buy the food they need.

“Programs like Summer EBT are essential for reducing childhood hunger,” DWSS Deputy Administrator Kelly Cantrelle said. “Even a small amount of extra grocery support can ease the burden for working families during the summer months.”

The Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS) anticipates up to 280,000 children may be eligible to receive benefits automatically this year, based on current enrollment data. Children who are already eligible for school meal programs or public assistance will be automatically enrolled and receive benefits without having to apply. Families who are unsure about their eligibility are encouraged to apply immediately.

Families who received Summer EBT last year will automatically get this year’s benefits on the same card, unless their school information has changed. New recipients or those whose information on file with their child’s school has changed will receive a card by mail within two to three weeks.

In 2024, the S-EBT program provided $37 million in food assistance across Nevada. Nearly 80 percent of those benefits were used, showing strong demand and usage among eligible households.

The last day to apply is Aug. 10, 2025. To learn more or apply, visit the DWSS Summer EBT webpage.

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About the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services
The Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS) promotes the well-being of Nevadans through programs that support food security, economic stability, and access to essential services. DWSS administers a range of federal and state programs, including SNAP, TANF, Medicaid eligibility, and child care assistance, with a mission to help individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency. Learn more at dwss.nv.gov.