CNP SME EBT benefits non appr

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the Arkansas Department of Human Services $40.7 million on October 1, 2025, under the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer Program for Children (CFDA 10.646) to provide EBT benefits to children who lose access to free and reduced-price meals during summer when school is not in session.

The program funds the distribution of nutrition benefits on EBT cards to eligible children, who can use the cards to purchase food from approved retailers. Eligible children include those determined eligible for free or reduced-price school meals in the prior school year or during the summer; states may automatically enroll children based on administrative data or require application and eligibility determination. The award runs through September 30, 2026, with place of performance in Arkansas. This is a formula grant under a permanent federal program; funding is determined annually and states may distribute assistance as a lump sum or monthly basis during their summer period. Recipients must retain records for three years after submission of certification data for the fiscal year.