Community Notes: Tennessee's Summer Nutrition Initiative: Supporting Underserved Families Begins June 13

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) recently announced a significant initiative, granting a one-time payment of $120 to families facing food insecurity across 15 counties, launching on Friday, June 13, 2025. TDHS Commissioner Clarence H. Carter emphasized that this Summer Nutrition Initiative aims to bolster food security for children in Tennessee. "Our prudent approach is designed to help those in greatest need during the summer months," he noted.This initiative, previously sanctioned by the Lee administration and supported by the Tennessee General Assembly, targets eligible children enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Families First Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program. The initiative will utilize existing EBT cards for disbursement. Counties recognized for their limited access to meal sites—Benton, Carroll, Carter, Cocke, and others—will automatically provide these benefits to children aged 5-18 as of May 1, 2025. Families do not need to apply; benefits begin on June 13, 2025. For additional details, visit: https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/summer-nutrition-initiative.html.