"Nebraska Governor Reverses Decision, Opts into Federal Summer Food Program for Kids"

Governor Jim Pillen has reversed his decision and accepted federal funds for the USDA’s Summer EBT program, providing $18 million to support 150,000 eligible kids with pre-loaded EBT cards for nutritious meals during the summer. Pillen attributed his change of heart to hearing firsthand accounts of children experiencing hunger. The program will be implemented with a focus on education about nutritious options, outreach to eligible families, and additional resources. Nebraska Appleseed expressed gratitude for the decision and emphasized the positive impact on children and the state's economy.