The Albertsons Companies Foundation has unveiled an ambitious initiative aimed at combating childhood hunger during the summer months. This groundbreaking effort, backed by a coalition of leading nonprofit organizations, is centered around promoting the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer for Children Program (Summer EBT), also known as SUN Bucks.
Christy Duncan Anderson, President and Executive Director of Albertsons Companies Foundation, emphasized the importance of collaboration in tackling the multifaceted issue of childhood hunger. By leveraging the collective expertise and extensive networks of prominent nonprofits, the initiative aims to reach more families than ever before.
During the summer, millions of children who rely on school meals face a lack of access to nutritious food. To address this challenge, the USDA has introduced the Summer EBT program in 37 states, all five U.S. territories, and two Tribes. Eligible low-income families with school-aged children will receive $120 per child to purchase groceries during the summer months when school is not in session.
Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America, expressed excitement about the launch of the Summer EBT program, which has been advocated for over a decade. Through collaboration with partners like the Albertsons Companies Foundation, Feeding America aims to make a tangible impact on summer hunger and pave the way for broader participation in the future.
The Albertsons Companies Foundation’s Nourishing Neighbors program, alongside an Advisory Group comprising key stakeholders across the food system, will work diligently to ensure maximum participation in this vital program during its inaugural year. The Advisory Group includes representatives from organizations such as Feeding America, Food Research & Action Center, and No Kid Hungry, collectively reaching a vast network of food banks, school districts, and community organizations nationwide.
Anne Filipic, CEO of Share Our Strength, underscored the significance of collective action in addressing the challenges of childhood hunger. By partnering with organizations like the Albertsons Companies Foundation, Share Our Strength aims to move closer to the goal of ensuring every child in America has access to the nourishment they need to thrive.
Through a comprehensive approach encompassing online outreach and community engagement, the initiative seeks to empower parents and caregivers with the information they need to benefit from the Summer EBT program. Additionally, the coalition has launched SummerEBT.org, a user-friendly website that allows families to quickly determine their eligibility and access state sign-up sites. For families in non-participating states, the website offers alternative food resources and encourages them to advocate for their state’s involvement in the program next summer.
