$12-$14 Million Wasted: Louisiana Families Urged to Use Summer SNAP Benefits Before They Expire, As Alliance to Defeat Hunger Warns of Financial Loss!

Urgent Call to Action: Utilize SUN Bucks Before Expiration

Alliance Advocacy: Ensuring Swift Delivery of SUN Bucks

According to brproud, in Louisiana families receiving SNAP benefits are being encouraged to make use of their Summer SNAP benefits known as SUN Bucks before they expire. Issued by the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services in June each child eligible for these benefits receives a one-time payment of $120. These funds are specifically intended for children aged 5 to 18 who qualify based on their enrollment in Medicaid or their participation in free or reduced-price school meals during the previous school year. Families must utilize these benefits within 122 days of issuance to ensure they do not lose out on this financial support.

The Alliance to Defeat Hunger has been actively advocating for families to update their addresses with local Medicaid offices and schools promptly. This ensures that families receive their EBT cards without delay facilitating timely access to the SUN Bucks. Mike Rolfsen an organizer with the Alliance has highlighted the risk of these funds going unused which would necessitate returning the unused amounts to the federal government. As Phase 2 of the SUN Bucks program prepares to include more eligible children and new EBT cards are scheduled to be mailed in late July the Alliance underscores the urgent need for families to act quickly in using these resources for purchasing essential groceries.

READ ALSO: FAFSA Deadline Looms: June 30, 2024 At 11:59 Pm CT – Don’t Miss Out On $246 Billion In Federal Aid!

$12-$14 Million Wasted: Louisiana Families Urged to Use Summer SNAP Benefits Before They Expire, As Alliance to Defeat Hunger Warns of Financial Loss! (PHOTO: KTVE)

Past Lessons Reinforce Urgency in Maximizing SNAP Benefits

Last year Louisiana reportedly forfeited between $12 to $14 million in unspent SNAP benefits a concerning figure that highlights the importance of proactive utilization this year. Emily Chatelain a member of the Alliance expressed deep concern over the potential for significant funds earmarked for food assistance to once again go unused if families are not properly informed and motivated. As Louisiana continues to navigate economic challenges exacerbated by events like the pandemic and natural disasters maximizing the impact of SNAP benefits remains critical in providing vital nutritional support to vulnerable children and families throughout the state.

READ ALSO: President Biden’s Rent Cap Plan: Will It Stem Housing Crisis Or Stifle Landlord Investment?