As we approach the summer months, the district would like to share several valuable food assistance resources available to support children and families in our community. View the newly updated Orange County Food Assistance Resource Guide (May 2026), which provides information on local food pantries, meal programs, and other assistance services. Families may also use the SNAP Eligibility Tool to determine if they qualify for monthly benefits to help purchase food at grocery stores and participating farmers markets.
In addition, information regarding the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (Summer EBT) Program is available.. Summer EBT helps eligible families purchase food when school is not in session.
Summer Food Assistance Resources – 2026
1. Local Food Assistance Resources
Orange County Food Assistance Resource Guide (Updated May 2026)
· Comprehensive directory of local food pantries, meal programs, and community assistance resources.
2. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
· Helps families determine whether they may qualify for monthly food benefits.
· Benefits can be used at grocery stores and participating farmers markets.
SNAP Eligibility Tool Link: https://hungersolutionsny.org/find-food-help/snap/snap-eligibility-tool/
3. Summer EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer)
· Provides eligible families with benefits to help purchase food during the summer months when school is not in session.
· Most eligible children will receive benefits automatically; some families may need to apply.
Program Information Link: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/summer-ebt/
Important Dates
· Summer EBT 2026 benefits begin issuing in June 2026.
· Eligibility letters will be mailed throughout the spring and early summer.
· The application deadline for Summer EBT 2026 is September 8, 2026.
4. Family Information Flyers (Electronic Benefits Transfer_
These flyers provide an overview of the Summer EBT program and application information for families.