Choctaw Nation Summer Food Programs to Feed Children and Families Across Southeastern Oklahoma

DURANT, Okla. – The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma will once again offer two essential food assistance programs this summer: the Summer EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) program and the Summer Food Service Program. Both initiatives help children and families across Southeast Oklahoma have access to nutritious meals during the summer months when school is out of session.

The Summer EBT program provides qualifying families with $40 per child, per month for grocery benefits from mid-May through early August. This federally funded program is open to all people who meet eligibility requirements, regardless of tribal affiliation, and is an equal opportunity provider.

“These programs reflect our ongoing commitment to meeting the basic needs of our children and families,” said Shelly Rector, Senior Director of Health Services Food and Nutrition Programs for the Choctaw Nation. “No child should go hungry during the summer months, and we are proud to make these resources available to help fill that gap.”

To qualify for Summer EBT, children must live within the Choctaw Nation and be at least one of the following:

• Enrolled in a participating school district in grades pre-K – 12 within the Choctaw Nation reservation and
• Receive free or reduced-cost meals at school. If the child(ren) were on the school’s list, they are automatically qualified and enrolled in the program. (If nothing has been received yet, verifying the mailing address with the program manager may be required.)
• Free and reduced-cost meal programs offered by schools operating Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) may have additional criteria to qualify.
• Enrolled in a charter school or homeschooled and have a household member receiving certain specific state or federal benefits.
• Enrolled in foster care system.

Specific income guidelines may also need to be met. Families can apply online or get more information about the Summer EBT program. Families can also call 580-916-9239 with any questions.

Over 17,000 children have already started receiving their Summer EBT benefits.

In addition, the Summer Food Service Program offers free grab & go meals for all children under the age of 18. Meals are available at various locations across the Choctaw Nation reservation each week. These meals are open to all children regardless of income or tribal affiliation, and the program is also an equal opportunity provider.

Meal pick-up sites and times can be found online. Summer Food Service Program questions can also be directed to 580-642-7022.