SNAP Benefits

CBSD Families:

We wanted to make you aware of a benefit that you will be receiving in the next few weeks.

Pennsylvania was approved by the US Department of Agriculture for a plan to provide Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to students eligible for free or reduced meals through the National School Lunch Program.   https://www.media.pa.gov/Pages/DHS_details.aspx?newsid=528

What does this mean to you?  Because Columbia Borough School District offers free breakfast and lunch for every student, all students in the District will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.  The benefits are calculated at $5.70 per day for 65 days that school is closed or $370.50 per student.  If you currently have an EBT card, this amount will be added to your card.  If you do not have a card, you will be receiving one with the benefits pre-loaded on the card.  The cards are issued by PA Department of Human Services (DHS).  Any questions or concerns regarding these cards or amount received should be directed to DHS.  https://www.dhs.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx        

DHS Helpline 1-800-692-7462

Columbia Borough School District supplies information to the PA Department of Education on a daily basis.  Pennsylvania is using this information to mail the cards.  The District is not a party in distribution or in any determinations.  Please do not throw the cards away.  It is a legitimate card and has at least $370 for food purchases.

You can get more details about this program under our COVID-19 Updates Page, under Useful Links, https://www.columbiabsd.org/o/cbsd/page/covid-19-updates--2