Sept. 1 deadline nears for Oregon Summer EBT food assistance

OREGON (KTVZ) -- Families in Oregon have until Sept. 1, 2026, to apply for food assistance through the Summer EBT program. The program provides $120 per eligible child to help cover grocery costs while school is out.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) are urging households to check their eligibility before the fast-approaching deadline. Since June 5, the program has issued $39.8 million in food benefits to more than 331,844 school-aged children. State officials estimate thousands of additional families may qualify for the benefit but remain unaware of the assistance.

Most eligible children, including those in foster care, received their benefits automatically on June 5. Households are enrolled automatically if they participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or are Oregon Health Plan members with incomes under 185% of the federal poverty level. Families who were not automatically enrolled may still be eligible if their household meets income requirements for free or reduced-price school meals. The child must also attend a school or Headstart program that participates in the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program.

ODHS Director Liesl Wendt emphasized that the state wants to ensure all families are aware of the available resources. Wendt encouraged parents to check their status even if they believe they are ineligible. “We want to make sure children have enough to eat throughout the summer and that all families know about the help available,” Wendt said. “We don't want families to think it's too late to apply. Reach out to ODHS today so we can check your eligibility and connect your family with food benefits.”

Dr. Charlene Williams, the ODE director, is calling on local schools and community organizations to assist in reaching eligible households. “We're asking community organizations, schools and summer meal providers to help spread the word by posting flyers and sharing information with families,” Williams said. “We want every eligible child to receive this food benefit.”

Once issued, benefits must be used within 122 days. Christine Doody serves as the ODHS Summer EBT program manager. Families can verify their status or apply by calling the Summer EBT Call Center at 833-673-7328. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit sebt.oregon.gov or for information in Spanish visit ebtv.oregon.gov

Applications for the program must be submitted by Sept. 1, 2026. The call center will remain available during weekday business hours to assist families with the verification process.