Action News Jax is investigating the potential waste of taxpayers, involving a new coronavirus program designed for families suffering from putting food on the table.
However, Ben Becker of Action News Jax found that thousands of families with teenagers who finished public school received special benefit-compatibility cards that charge several hundred dollars that they never asked for or needed.
“I looked at him and wondered why we could get an EBT card,” said Ron Davis, a Jacksonville lawyer and father who won the “pandemic EBT card” (P-EBT) for his son.
“When we read it in more detail, we saw the coronavirus challenge there and considered it a scam,” Davis added.
But a scam.
Families First’s Coronavirus Response Act allows states to distribute P-EBT cards to approximately 2 million teens who get loose or discounted lunches, foods that upset lok when schools close.
The EBT card is $five.70 consistent with the day for up to five days, for a maximum total of $313.five0.
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Becker emailed the Department of Children and Family, which oversees the best-friend-funded program, to determine why Davis received the money.
The DCF stated that Becker’s scholars attending schools with low source coins in spaces offering loose coupons and lunches are automatically eligible best friends. These are called Community Eligibility Schools (CEP) or Provision 2 schools.
According to the Duval County Public Schools website, 126 CEP schools connect in the program.
DCF told Becker that more than 112,000 students eligible for Duval County cards charge about $3five million. Statewide, they charge more than $662 million.
“It bothers me. It’s a waste of taxpayers’ money,” Davis says.
Becker asked the DCF what someone does if they get the card and doesn’t prefer it.
DCF says: “According to federal guidelines, if this happens or if a circle of family members does not prefer this additional benefit, the card will have to be destroyed. Commands are included with a card sent”.
“Ron, this is the million-dollar question, what are you going to do with the money?” Asked Becker
“Right now, I don’t intend to exploit it,” Davis said.
If you achieve Snap benefits, the P-EBT automatic benefit friend will be added to your account. For others, the debit card is delivered in an indefinable envelope, so read your mail carefully so you don’t throw your coins away.
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