The USDA has launched SUN Bucks, a program designed to address the financial strain families face when schools close for summer. With school-aged children no longer accessing free or reduced-price meals during these months, many families struggle to afford nutritious food. SUN Bucks offers eligible families a one-time $120 per child payment, helping to ensure children’s nutritional needs are met during summer break.
Table of Contents
Benefits
SUN Bucks bridges the gap left by school meal programs, which many families rely on during the academic year. Without this safety net, grocery costs can skyrocket for families. This initiative ensures that children maintain access to healthy food, promoting their physical and mental well-being even outside school months.
Program
The SUN Bucks program is a part of broader USDA efforts to:
- Combat food insecurity among children.
- Support families during high-spending summer months.
- Promote health and nutrition for school-aged children.
Eligibility
Wondering if your family qualifies? SUN Bucks targets households already participating in government assistance programs or school meal plans.
Recipients
If you’re currently receiving SNAP benefits, you’re automatically enrolled in the SUN Bucks program.
Program Beneficiaries
Families in programs like:
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children),
- TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), or
- FDPIR (Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations),
may also qualify.
School Meal Participants
If your child is enrolled in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) and qualifies for free or reduced-price meals, you’re eligible for SUN Bucks—even if you don’t receive SNAP benefits.
Payment Details
Here’s how the SUN Bucks program works:
| Details | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $120 per eligible child. |
| Distribution | Funds are added to existing SNAP EBT cards or new EBT cards. |
| Expiration | Funds must be used within 122 days of issuance. |
The benefits don’t roll over month-to-month, so it’s important to use them before they expire.
Application
Good news—families already enrolled in SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or those with children receiving free or reduced-price school meals are automatically enrolled in the SUN Bucks program.
Manual Application
If you’re not automatically enrolled but believe you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply online through the USDA’s SUN Bucks page. The website provides step-by-step guidance on income thresholds and the application process.
SUN Bucks
SUN Bucks isn’t the only support available. Families can use these benefits alongside other initiatives like SUN Meals To-go or local summer meal sites. For more information:
- Text FOOD to 304-304.
- Call 1-866-3-HUNGRY.
- Visit summermeals4nckids.org.
Benefiting
The program began distributing funds on June 14th and continues issuing payments biweekly through September. Families should safeguard their EBT cards and visit the NCDHHS Card Skimmers and Stolen FNS Benefits webpage for tips on preventing fraud.
SUN Bucks is more than financial aid; it’s a lifeline ensuring children have access to the nutrition they need to thrive. Families are encouraged to check their eligibility, apply if needed, and take full advantage of this vital program.
FAQs
What is the SUN Bucks program?
It’s a USDA initiative providing $120 per child to help with summer food costs.
Who is eligible for SUN Bucks?
Families in SNAP, WIC, TANF, FDPIR, or school meal programs qualify.
How are SUN Bucks distributed?
Funds are added to existing or new EBT cards.
When does the program run?
Payments began June 14th and continue through September.
Can SUN Bucks be used with other programs?
Yes, they complement other summer meal programs.
