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As summer begins, many children who rely on school lunches face increased hunger. To combat this issue, the new SUN Bucks program is set to provide financial assistance for groceries to millions of families.
Launched this summer, SUN Bucks is part of the Biden administration's "SUN Programs" introduced in May by the Department of Agriculture (USDA). These initiatives aim to offer additional food support to eligible families during the summer months.
SUN Bucks provide extra food assistance funds to households already benefiting from programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). According to the USDA, approximately 21 million children are expected to benefit from the program this summer.
Is Sun Bucks a one-time payment?
Eligible households with school-aged children can receive a one-time $120 payment to purchase fresh food and snacks. In regions with higher food costs, such as Alaska, Hawaii, and various U.S. territories, the amount is increased. For example, families in Hawaii will receive $177 this summer.
While the USDA has made SUN Bucks available nationwide, only 36 states, the District of Columbia, five territories, and two tribes have opted to participate. Families enrolled in SNAP, the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) are eligible for SUN Bucks. Additionally, households qualifying for free and reduced-price school meals can apply.
Families not currently receiving food assistance can apply for SUN Bucks through their local department managing EBT and SNAP. Interested households should verify fund availability in their area and check with their state agency for application details.
Who is eligible for the payment?
All households with children, regardless of citizenship status, can apply if they meet income requirements. Families already receiving benefits like SNAP will likely receive SUN Bucks automatically, depending on their state's distribution schedule.
For new applicants, the timing and method of receiving SUN Bucks depend on when and where they apply.