Thread by @kayleeolivastv

STATE TURNS DOWN $$ TO FEED TO KIDS: Oklahoma has declined to participate in this summer’s EBT program to feed children. It would’ve provided families with $40/month/kid for food. @kfor 🧵

1 in 5 Oklahoma kids currently experience food insecurity and roughly 60% rely on free or reduced lunch.

“We’re one of the worst in the nation and that’s been true for a while now,” said Hunger Free OK CEO, Chris Bernard. @kfor 🧵

The USDA summer program gives eligible families federally funded EBT cards. Those cards are pre-loaded with the $40/month/kid.

38 states/nations/territories are taking advantage of the program this summer, including Cherokee + Chickasaw Nations. @kfor 🧵

The Cherokee Nation was able to help 7,000 families through the program last year.

“It’s proven effective. We don’t have to guess whether providing better access to food for hungry kids, particularly in the summer months, is a good idea,” said @ChuckHoskin_Jr @kfor 🧵

@GovStitt’s office tells me to implement the program this summer required additional information that couldn’t be compiled and analyzed prior to the Jan. 1 application deadline.

There is also an admin fee the state would have to pay, but it’s unknown the exact cost @kfor🧵

“People are going to skip meals or you’re going to stretch meals farther,” added Bernard. “The charitable side will try and fill the gap, but there are going to be some struggles.”

@GovStitt’s office has sent a statement, but plans to send another by 2:30-3. @kfor 🧵

If you’re in need of assistance, Oklahoma has SNAP benefits. @oksde has a summer food program and the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma has a summer feeding program.

We’re also coming up on the regular legislative session. There are several food/nutrition bills filed. @kfor 🧵

DHS does spend roughly $2B on food distribution across Oklahoma.

We’ll have more for you tonight at 4:30 + 6 @kfor 🧵

@kfor Also - to add for clarity - this summer program is not entirely new. It went through a pilot program for a few years before becoming official last year.

Hunger Free OK says Oklahoma did participate in the summer program in 2023. @kfor