It’s that time of year again. Students and families are preparing to head back to school in just a few weeks. 

Applications for the School Clothing Allowance Program are now being accepted by DHHR from July 1- July 31, 2021 for eligible kids enrolled in West Virginia Schools. Go to WVPATH to apply online. Or call your local DHHR office or 1-877-716-1212 to request a paper application.

Eligible kids will receive a $200 benefit that can be used to purchase school clothing.

Some families will automatically get the benefit, like families who get WV Works or families who get food stamps and have a certain income. Parents or guardians of kids in foster care will automatically get the benefit too.  Other families will have to apply. 

Eligibility is based on having kids in school and income limits. Income limits for 2021 are on DHHR’s website.

If your family is eligible, instead of a traditional paper voucher, you will get an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card. The EBT card can be used for online purchases. The EBT card will work like a debit card. It can be used at any retailer who can process debit/credit card transactions. Parents or guardians of kids in foster care will get the school clothing allowance as a check.

Don’t forget to get your application in by July 31, 2021!  If you are denied, you can apply for help from Legal Aid to learn more about your rights.

For more information read our article: https://legalaidwv.org/legal-information/school-clothing-vouchers-information-how-to-apply/