This post will provide a detailed guide to Summer 2023 P-EBT for Oregon. The Summer Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) has been a crucial federal food program that has provided support to families during the summer period of COVID-19 pandemic.
Even though the official COVID-19 health has ended, the federal government is still approving state Summer P-EBT benefits to eligible students.
The Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) have been working together to administer P-EBT benefits in the state for Summer 2023.
In this blog post, we will provide information about the 2023 Oregon Summer P-EBT benefits, including eligibility criteria, application process, distribution timeline, and the amount of benefits. Let’s dive in!
What is P-EBT?
The Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) program was established by Congress in 2020 to assist families in purchasing food while schools and child care facilities were closed due to the pandemic.
P-EBT provides funds to households with children who qualify for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
Summer 2023 P-EBT for Oregon
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved Oregon’s Summer 2023 P-EBT State plan for school-age children.
This means that eligible families will continue to receive P-EBT benefits during the summer months.
Who is Eligible for 2023 Oregon Summer P-EBT Benefits?
During the summer of 2023, all eligible school children in Oregon will receive P-EBT benefits if they would have qualified for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
It’s important to note that the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARP) extended P-EBT through the end of the federal COVID-19 public health emergency and the summer following the end of the public health emergency for school children.
When will 2023 Oregon P-EBT Benefits be Distributed?
ODHS will initiate the distribution process for the 2023 Summer P-EBT benefits in August 2023.
Most eligible children will receive a letter addressed to them in the mail, followed by the arrival of their individual P-EBT card.
The benefits will be provided in a single issuance for the entire summer period.
How Much will my Child Receive in Summer 2023 P-EBT Benefits?
Each eligible child will receive $120 on a special P-EBT card, which works like a debit card.
All children eligible for P-EBT benefits will receive the same benefit amount.
The total amount issued to Oregon children during the summer of 2023 is estimated to be approximately $36.0 million, benefiting around 300,000 schoolchildren.
2023 Oregon Summer P-EBT Benefits FAQs
Here are the most frequently asked questions about Summer 2023 P-EBT for Oregon:
Do I Need to Apply for Summer P-EBT for 2023?
Families do not need to apply for the 2023 Summer P-EBT benefits separately.
Eligible children will receive the benefits automatically based on their eligibility for free or reduced-price meals through NSLP.
The state and school districts will identify eligible children through direct certification or by verifying their eligibility for free or reduced-price meals before the end of the school year.
Will there be more P-EBT benefits after Summer 2023?
Currently, no additional P-EBT benefits are available past Summer 2022.
Any future extensions will be based on the ongoing need due to the COVID-19 public health emergency declaration.
Please check the official P-EBT website (pebt.oregon.gov) for updates and program status.
What if I lost or never received my P-EBT card?
If you have lost your newly issued P-EBT card, you can request a replacement card by calling the P-EBT Call Center at (844) ORE-PEBT or (844) 673-7328.
How do I check my P-EBT card balance?
You can check your P-EBT card balance by visiting www.ebtedge.com or calling the number on the back of your P-EBT card (1-877-997-4447).
Please note that if you are currently receiving SNAP benefits, the P-EBT balance will be separate from your SNAP benefits.
Where can I use my P-EBT benefits?
You can use your P-EBT benefits at any store that accepts EBT, including online retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
Most retailers have signs indicating they accept SNAP or EBT. P-EBT benefits can be used to purchase most foods, except prepared and hot foods.
Can my child receive meals at school and use P-EBT benefits?
Yes, P-EBT benefits supplement school meals and do not replace them.
Families are encouraged to continue participating in meal programs offered by schools and communities.
For more information about the P-EBT program and frequently asked questions, visit pebt.oregon.gov.
If you have specific questions about your child’s eligibility or P-EBT card, you can contact the P-EBT Call Center at (844) ORE-PEBT or (844) 673-7328.
Summary – Summer 2023 P-EBT for Oregon
Here’s the bottom line about the 2023 Oregon Summer P-EBT Benefits:
The 2023 Oregon Summer P-EBT benefits aim to provide additional support to families with school-age children during the summer months.
Eligible households do not need to apply for these benefits as they will be automatically distributed to students who meet the eligibility criteria.
The set benefit amount of $120 per eligible child will help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with providing food during the summer.
For more information or assistance, households can contact the P-EBT Helpline or visit the CDSS P-EBT website.
Questions?
We hope this post on the Summer 2023 P-EBT for Oregon was helpful.
If you have further questions about Oregon P-EBT benefits, please let us know in the comments section below.
In the meantime, be sure to check out our other articles on SNAP EBT and Food Stamps: