Millions of Kids Miss Out on Extra Food Support as Some Republican-led States Decline Federal Aid
According to Daily Kos, in some Republican-led states that have turned down federal help, many families are finding it hard to get enough food. Crystal Ripolio, a mother in Florida, shared her worries as she got food from a food bank in Tallahassee, saying her fridge was empty. The federal Summer EBT program gives an extra $120 per child to help families buy food in the summer, but 13 states, including Florida, have chosen not to join.
This choice means millions of kids are missing out on extra food support. Ripolio, who has two school-aged daughters, could have used this help, especially since she has been unable to work while taking care of her sick daughter. Layla Santiago, a single mother from Jacksonville, also struggles to get to food pantries because she doesn’t have a car, showing how tough it is without the extra aid.
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13 Million Children Left Behind: Florida’s Refusal to Participate in Summer EBT Program Worsens Food Insecurity (PHOTO: USA Today)
Advocates Urge States to Join Federal Food Program Amid High Demand and Financial Struggles
The states that didn’t join the Summer EBT program gave reasons like old state systems and not agreeing with welfare programs. But food banks and advocates say the need is still very high, with many families struggling with high prices and financial problems. They are asking state officials to join the Summer EBT program next summer to better help families in need.
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