Lifestyle

P-EBT Ended, but You Can Still Get Free Food for Your Family

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From 2020 to early 2023, many families with school-aged children and babies benefited from the P-EBT (pandemic food stamps) program. Although we are through the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many families living in the U.S. are still fighting to get back on their feet because of issues like inflation. Fortunately, there are free resources to keep your family fed, regardless of immigration status.


This article will answer the following questions about free food resources:


  1. Are there other food programs like P-EBT?
  2. Can I still use my P-EBT card even though the program ended?
  3. Where else can I find free food near me?
  4. What if I have a food emergency?
  5. How can I get free food for my baby?
  6. How can I get free food for an elderly loved one?

Are there other food programs like P-EBT?

P-EBT was a bonus benefit during the pandemic to the already existing food program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The SNAP program is a monthly benefit loaded onto a card for low-income individuals or families to purchase groceries. Even if you are not a U.S. citizen, but your child is, you can apply for the SNAP program on their behalf. 

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply. 

If you want to know more about what the SNAP program allows you to buy, click here.

Can I still use my P-EBT card even though the program ended?

Even though the P-EBT program ended in the school year 2022-2023, you may still have funds available on your card. In most states, funds expire roughly a year after the card was issued, so you may still have time to use your remaining funds. 

If you need help with your EBT card, here’s how to contact your local SNAP office.

Where else can I find free food near me?

We have a previous article with a step-by-step guide on finding free food within your zipcode from local charities and food banks.

What if I have a food emergency?

We recommend calling 2-1-1 or going to findhelp.org if you need assistance immediately. Both resources are available in Spanish.

How can I get free food for my baby?

Like SNAP, WIC is a national benefits program for women, infants, and children. Learn the difference between the programs here. This article also explains what you need to apply for WIC. 

If your baby is still on formula or breast milk, review our previous article for those resources. This article also provides information on clothes and diapers for your baby. 

If your baby needs food urgently, please use one of the emergency resources listed above.

How can I get free food for an elderly loved one?

Meals on Wheels is a nationwide program mainly catering to those aged 60 and older or anyone with mobility issues. This program delivers nutritious, ready-made meals directly to your home. You can find more information on that here. You can search by zip code and contact your nearest affiliate for application requirements.

Thalia Carrillo is a writer based in Austin, TX. She moved from her hometown of El Paso, TX to pursue a journalism degree at The University of Texas at Austin. She enjoys covering politics and pop culture and has a passion for social justice, digital storytelling, plants, and specialty coffee!