The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), through its Food and Nutrition Service, has unveiled a new program to help families during the summer: the Summer Grocery Benefit for Kids, also known as SUN Bucks.
This initiative aims to support SNAP recipients and other qualifying families by providing financial assistance to purchase groceries when school is out.
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SUN Bucks
SUN Bucks is designed to assist U.S. families with school-aged children who meet certain eligibility requirements. Families with eligible children can receive $120 per child, a one-time payment intended to ease the financial burden of summer grocery expenses.
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Eligibility
To be eligible for SUN Bucks, your child must be school-aged (typically 5-18 years old). Your household must also meet one of the following criteria:
- Participation in Benefits: If your household is already receiving benefits like SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or income-eligible Medicaid, your child will automatically be enrolled in SUN Bucks.
- School Meal Programs: If your child attends a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP), and your income qualifies for free or reduced-price school meals, your child may also be automatically enrolled.
If your household does not automatically qualify, you can apply directly. Your income must be below specific limits based on household size. Detailed income eligibility can be found on the USDA website here.
State Variations
The program name and specific details may vary by state. For example, in California, SNAP is known as CalFresh. Similarly, SUN Bucks might have different names in different states, but the benefits and eligibility criteria remain consistent.
Duration and Distribution
SUN Bucks provides a $120 benefit per eligible child for the summer, issued as a one-time payment. This benefit remains the same regardless of when the child becomes eligible during the summer. Here are the key points:
- Issuance: In North Carolina, the first SUN Bucks payment was issued in mid-June 2024. New benefits are issued every two weeks through the end of September as more children are deemed eligible.
- Expiration: Benefits expire 122 days after being made available on the household’s EBT or SUN Bucks card. Households will receive a 30-day notice before the expiration date.
- Application Deadline: In Washington state, families can apply for SUN Bucks until August 31, 2024.
Other Benefits
Families receiving SUN Bucks can also benefit from other summer feeding programs. For instance, the SUN Meals program continues to provide free meals, either through the SUN Meals To-go service or at local meal sites. This ensures that children receive consistent nutritional support throughout the summer.
Additional Eligibility
Not on SNAP? Don’t worry. Families benefiting from WIC, TANF, or FDPIR may also qualify for SUN Bucks. The program is designed to be inclusive, ensuring broad access to summer grocery support.
SUN Bucks vs. SNAP
While SUN Bucks is a supplemental summer benefit, SNAP provides year-round assistance. Here’s how they differ:
- Duration: SUN Bucks is a one-time summer payment, whereas SNAP benefits are distributed monthly.
- Eligibility: SUN Bucks automatically enrolls children who received SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or Medicaid during the school year, or those approved for free/reduced-price school meals. Some families may need to apply separately.
- Expiration: SUN Bucks benefits expire after 122 days if not used, while SNAP benefits roll over month-to-month.
- Usage: SUN Bucks can be used alongside other summer feeding programs, providing additional support to families.
SUN Bucks is a new initiative, distinct from the previous Pandemic-EBT program. Not all children who received P-EBT will automatically qualify for SUN Bucks, as the eligibility criteria differ.
In conclusion, the SUN Bucks program is a valuable resource for families needing extra support during the summer. By providing financial assistance for groceries, it helps ensure that children continue to receive nutritious meals when school is not in session.
FAQs
What is the SUN Bucks program?
A summer grocery benefit providing $120 per eligible child.
Who qualifies for SUN Bucks?
Families with school-aged children on SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or Medicaid.
How long are SUN Bucks benefits valid?
Benefits expire 122 days after issuance.
Can SUN Bucks be used with other programs?
Yes, alongside programs like SUN Meals.
What is the maximum benefit per child?
$120 per eligible child for the summer.