The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has introduced the SUN Bucks program, offering families with school-aged children a one-time payment of $120 per child to address food insecurity during the summer months. This initiative supports low-income families whose children depend on school meal programs during the academic year, ensuring continued access to nutritious food even when schools are closed.
Key Details About the SUN Bucks Program
- Payment Amount: $120 per eligible child, distributed as a one-time benefit.
- Usage: Funds are loaded onto existing SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards or issued on new cards for those not enrolled in SNAP.
- Expiration: Benefits must be used within 122 days; unused funds will not roll over to the next month.
The program aligns with broader USDA efforts, such as the Summer Nutrition Programs, which aim to combat hunger by providing meals to children during school breaks.
Who Is Eligible for SUN Bucks?
The SUN Bucks program is designed to include families already enrolled in various assistance programs. Eligible groups include:
- SNAP Recipients: Families currently receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
- Other Program Participants:
- Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program.
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).
- School Meal Program Beneficiaries: Families whose children are enrolled in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) and qualify for free or reduced-price meals based on income.
How to Apply for SUN Bucks?
- Automatic Enrollment: Most eligible families, particularly those receiving SNAP, TANF, or WIC, are automatically enrolled. Children in schools that offer free or reduced-price meals are also auto-enrolled if income requirements are met.
- Manual Application: Families not automatically enrolled but meeting eligibility criteria can apply through the USDA’s online portal. Applicants must confirm their child’s enrollment in an NSLP school and report income details to verify eligibility.
Tips to Maximize SUN Bucks Benefits
- Plan Purchases: Focus on nutrient-dense items like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins.
- Use Benefits Timely: Be mindful of the 122-day expiration window.
- Leverage Local Programs: Combine SUN Bucks with other summer feeding initiatives, such as community meal sites or “SUN Meals To-Go” programs.
Why SUN Bucks Matters
Food insecurity spikes during summer when school meals aren’t available, leaving many families with added financial stress. SUN Bucks fills this gap, ensuring children continue to receive essential nutrition for their health and development. This initiative underscores the USDA’s commitment to tackling hunger and promoting food equity across the United States.
For more details, families can visit the USDA’s SUN Bucks application page or explore additional support programs like Summer Meals by texting FOOD to 304-304 or calling 1-866-3-HUNGRY.
This program reflects a step forward in addressing seasonal food insecurity and supporting American families during times of need.
