Unused Summer EBT Funds Expose Challenges in Louisiana’s Fight Against Food Insecurity
Nonprofit’s Efforts Aim to Inform Louisiana Families About Accessing Crucial Food Assistance
According to brproud, in Louisiana millions of dollars in summer EBT funds for groceries went unspent last year, highlighting ongoing challenges in addressing food insecurity. The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) reported that between $12-14 million designated as SUN Bucks part of a summer grocery funding program for children aged 5 to 18 remained unused. This program aims to support underserved families during the summer months when children may lose access to school meals. Michael Rolfsen from the nonprofit Alliance to Defeat Hunger emphasized that incorrect addresses were a major hurdle preventing eligible families from accessing these crucial benefits. The organization is actively working to update addresses and inform families about available resources to alleviate food insecurity.
According to Rolfsen Louisiana ranks poorly in food insecurity, currently at No. 47 in the country. Last year despite around 320,000 eligible children in the state a significant portion of allocated funds went unclaimed. He stressed that if funds allocated to EBT cards are not utilized within 122 days they revert to the federal government. To prevent this DCFS has implemented a one-time payment of $120 on SNAP cards for eligible families. Rolfsen highlighted the need for awareness among families about these resources noting that many are unaware of the assistance available to them.
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$12-14 Million in Summer EBT Funds Left Unspent in Louisiana, Highlighting Food Insecurity Challenges! (PHOTO: FOX 8)
Nonprofit Alliance Drives Community Engagement to Enhance Food Security in Louisiana
The Alliance to Defeat Hunger’s efforts focus on bridging the gap between available resources and families in need. By ensuring that families have correct information and access to benefits they aim to reduce the barriers preventing families from utilizing EBT funds effectively. The nonprofit’s advocacy underscores the importance of community support and proactive outreach in tackling food insecurity across Louisiana. As the summer progresses efforts to update addresses and inform families about their eligibility for SUN Bucks and other programs will be critical in maximizing the impact of available resources and supporting vulnerable children in the state.
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