ABILENE, Texas — According to Governor Greg Abbott the deadline to apply for the Pandemic EBT card which pays $285 for each student who received free and reduced-price meals, has been extended through August 21.
"I encourage eligible Texans to apply for these benefits so they can continue to provide food for their families during these challenging times."- Governor Greg Abbott
Jay Towell, Director of Nutrition, for the Abilene Independent School District says, the P-EBT or Pandemic EBT card, is a one time befit of $285 per eligible child. Towell says every family that qualified and received meal benefits is eligible.
"Currently we have 10,974 total students who qualify for meal benefits, that is 72% of the student population" said Towell.
Food policy advocates said these extensions are necessary to give more time to the families of about 800,000 eligible Texas children who have yet to apply for the federal program.
"We know that food and security is prevalent not just in Abilene but across the nation, this is a great way for families to be more food secure if you will and supply proper nutrition for their children" said Towell.
In addition to the online application families can also call by phone to apply.