Massachusetts residents with school-aged children may be in need of some financial relief during the height of summer. The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA), in collaboration with Governor Healey, has implemented the Summer EBT program, an initiative designed to assist families with additional funds for groceries. According to a statement from the City of Boston, eligible families will receive $120 per child to address food insecurity when school is out.
As of mid-July, the DTA has begun the process of mailing out notifications and sending texts to families who will automatically be issued Summer EBT benefits as of today, July 25. Beneficiaries currently involved with SNAP have been alerted that the benefits will be directly deposited onto their existing EBT cards. On the other hand, families who do not participate in SNAP but, still meet the eligibility criteria, should expect to find a white Summer EBT card in their mailbox by the end of the month.
In instances where SNAP is not part of a family's current benefits, and no contact has been made by the DTA regarding the Summer EBT as of July 20, 2024, these households are encouraged to visit DTAconnect.odhhs.mass.gov to explore and apply for the program. Furthermore, if the DTA has reached out via text message but no official correspondence has followed, it's crucial to confirm or update the mailing address on file by calling the Summer EBT hotline at 855-425-8770 to ensure the arrival of the Summer EBT card.
DTA's efforts to alleviate the seasonal burden on families are bolstered by local organizations that are urged to contribute by distributing informational flyers about the Summer EBT. These materials, made available in a multitude of languages spoken throughout Boston, can be a vital tool in raising awareness. Those seeking further clarification or support are encouraged to utilize the Summer EBT hotline.
