The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) has decided not to participate in the Summer EBT program. DCFS Secretary David Matlock stated that the department’s main goal is to ensure child safety and help families become self-sufficient. He believes that the department should not be distracted by programs that may not provide long-term solutions.
Despite this decision, existing food assistance programs will continue. This includes the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which gives around $166 million in benefits each month to over 880,000 Louisiana residents, including about 390,000 children.
The DCFS also provides employment and training programs to help families overcome poverty. More details about these programs, known as the SET for Success workforce development programs, are available on the DCFS website.
The DCFS is the state agency in charge of child safety, aiding individuals and families to become self-sufficient, and providing disaster relief. It manages several federal programs including SNAP, Workforce Development (SET for Success), Child Support Enforcement, Disability Determination Services, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds.