CNP SME EBT benefits non appr

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the Louisiana Department of Health $78 million on October 1, 2025 under the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer Program for Children (CFDA 10.646). The award funds nutrition benefits loaded onto EBT cards for children who lose access to free and reduced price meals through the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program during summer when school is not in session. Eligible children include those determined eligible for free or reduced price school meals in the prior school year or during the summer; some are automatically enrolled based on administrative data, while others must apply and be determined eligible. Benefits are provided through the Louisiana Department of Health operating as the Office of Public Health and can be used to purchase food from approved retailers. The period of performance runs from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026, with performance in Louisiana. This is a formula grant under a continual permanent program; funding at the federal level is determined annually, and states may release assistance as a lump sum or on a monthly basis through their determined summer period.