Advocates Push for Summer Food Support to Help Houston Families

As summer approaches in Houston, advocates across Texas are urging state leaders to join a federal program that could bring crucial food support to millions of children. The initiative, known as Summer EBT, provides funds to help families buy groceries when school cafeterias close for the season.

While 35 other states have already committed to the program, Texas has not opted in. That decision could leave many Houston families without needed assistance during the hottest and often most financially stressful months of the year. Food insecurity remains a challenge in many parts of the city, especially for households that rely on free and reduced-price lunches during the school year.

Advocates argue the program would fill an important gap by giving families financial support to buy summer meals that kids might otherwise miss. For many children in the Houston area, school cafeterias are a dependable source of nutrition. Once summer break begins, those reliable meals disappear.

Why It Matters for Houston

Houston’s diverse and growing population includes thousands of students living in food-insecure households. In many neighborhoods, families struggle with rising grocery prices and limited access to affordable, healthy food options. By joining the program, Texas could unlock millions in federal funding to help close those nutritional gaps.

Local educators and hunger-relief groups say the decision could have a meaningful impact on students’ health and ability to learn once school resumes. Consistent nutrition during the summer helps children return to class focused and ready, reducing disparities between higher- and lower-income households.

What’s Next

Advocacy organizations continue meeting with state officials in hopes of reversing the decision before summer begins. While no final announcement has been made, the push has generated growing attention from community leaders, parents, and child welfare groups throughout Houston.

For now, many families remain uncertain about what resources will be available in the coming months. If Texas chooses not to participate, local food banks and community groups may face increased pressure to fill the need.

This article is a summary of reporting by Houston Public Media. Read the full story here.