CNP Summer EBT Admin Formula Grant Award Summary

The Arizona Department of Economic Security received a formula grant award of $909,690 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service for the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Program for Children (CFDA 10.646), effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. This award supports the administration of nutrition assistance benefits distributed to eligible low-income children during summer months when they lose access to free and reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. The program aims to reduce childhood hunger and food insecurity by providing EBT card benefits that eligible children can use to purchase food from approved retailers during the summer break period.

Under this formula grant, Arizona will administer program operations including eligibility determination, benefit distribution, and record retention in accordance with federal requirements. Children eligible for Summer EBT include those determined eligible for free or reduced-price school meals during the prior school year, with some automatically enrolled through state administrative data while others must apply and be determined eligible. The state may distribute benefits either as lump sum payments or on a monthly basis throughout its designated summer period, with all activities subject to a three-year record retention requirement following certification data submission.