CNP SME EBT benefits non appr

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services $132 million on October 1, 2025, under the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer Program for Children (CFDA 10.646), a formula grant supporting nutrition assistance during the summer months when school meal programs are not in session.

The award funds the delivery of EBT benefits loaded onto Summer EBT cards that eligible children use to purchase food from approved retailers. Children qualify for Summer EBT if they were determined eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program in the prior school year or during the summer. Some eligible children are automatically enrolled based on state administrative data indicating meal program eligibility; those not identified through existing records must apply and be determined eligible. Benefits may be distributed as a lump sum or monthly throughout the state's determined summer period.

North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services serves as the state administering agency for the program, with performance extending through September 30, 2026. The funding is obligated at $132 million. This is a continual permanent program with annual federal funding determinations; it is not a competitive grant subject to no-cost extension mechanics. The agency must retain program records for three years after submission of annual certification data.