Coxsackie-Athens taking part in summer EBT program

COXSACKIE, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- The Coxsackie-Athens Central School District is participating in New York State's new summer EBT program. The program offers families food benefits when school is out of session and kids can't rely on school meals on weekdays.

A $120 card is issued for each child and acts like SNAP benefits for low-income families to use at participating grocery stores, farmers markets, and retailers. The benefits expire 122 days after they are deposited and can't be put on a family's SNAP EBT card.

A helpline will activate on Monday, July 1, and families can check if their child qualifies for the summer EBT program by calling (833) 452-0096. The state's Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance website has more information about qualifying for the program.