The change to the P-EBT (Pandemic EBT) program recognizes that children and youth who were out of school as a result of the pandemic—through quarantines, isolation, temporary school closures, etc.—should receive compensation for free food they missed out on due to closures.
As of May 30, the following schools on the Northern Neck have been approved:
- Northumberland County's three schools (elementary, middle, and high) (eligibility began August 1, 2021)
- Lancaster County's three schools (primary, middle, and high) (eligibility began August 23, 2021)
- Westmoreland County Public Schools' four schools (two elementary, middle, and high) (eligibility began August 9, 2021)
- Colonial Beach School District's two schools (elementary and high) (eligibility began August 9, 2021)
- Richmond County Public Schools' two of three schools (elementary/middle and high) (elibility began August 1, 2021 and September 1, 2021, respectively)
There are rolling deadlines for schools and the last of the approved schools will be announced in July.
Benefits accruing to children and youth are dependent on the number of days absent, as is shown in the image to the right. For students absent for one to five days, the standard benefit is $21.30. For those absent six to 15 days, the standard benefit is $71.00. For students absent 16 or more days, the standard benefit is $127.80.
There are eligibility requirements, such as a school's participation in the National School Lunch Program. The Virginia Department of Social Services' P-EBT FAQs is a good resource for those with questions. Another resource is the infographic on the process, shown below.
