Osage Nation Submits Letter of Intent for Summer 2024 Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Program Funding

OSAGE NATION RESERVATION, OKLA. (January 9, 2024) – On January 5, 2024, the Osage Nation submitted a letter of intent for the Summer 2024 EBT Program funding to support families in need after the State of Oklahoma declined federal funding. Osage Nation’s Women, Infants, and Children’s (WIC) Department submitted the letter to the Food and Nutrition Services-USDA. The Osage Nation intends to serve all qualifying children residing in Osage County, regardless of their tribal or non-tribal affiliation, and will cover the administrative costs incurred by program participation. 

“As soon as we got word that the State of Oklahoma declined this important funding, our team took action,” said Osage Nation Principal Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear. “Any time we are able to support our community members, especially those in need, we are going to do it, and that’s exactly what we’re doing here. I am proud of our Osage Nation employees' rapid response and commitment to our community.” 

The USDA administers the Summer EBT Program that provides families $40 per qualifying child monthly. The summer months include June, July, and August, with a total benefit of $120 per qualifying child. Students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunches, available to households earning up to 185% of the federal poverty line, are eligible for the program. Osage Nation’s Social Services will continue to provide program updates and information. 

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