SUN Bucks Program: The SUN Bucks Program, officially known as the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (Summer EBT) initiative, is a federal program designed to provide nutritional assistance to families with school-aged children during the summer months when school meals are unavailable. As of 2025, the program remains active and has expanded to include additional states, ensuring more children have access to healthy meals during the summer break.
SUN Bucks Program
The SUN Bucks Program continues to be a crucial resource for families across the United States, ensuring that children have access to nutritious meals even when school is out for the summer. With expanded participation in 2025, more families can benefit from $120 per eligible child to purchase essential groceries. Families should check their state-specific application deadlines and procedures to ensure they receive the benefits.
The SUN Bucks Program remains active and does not impact immigration status, making it a safe and valuable resource for all eligible families. Whether automatically enrolled or required to apply, parents should take advantage of this program to support their children’s nutritional needs during the summer months. For more details and to apply, visit the USDA SUN Bucks Program or check with your state’s administering agency.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Status | Active in 2025 with expanded participation |
| Benefit Amount | $120 per eligible child per year |
| Eligibility Criteria | Children aged 0-22 years attending schools participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) and determined eligible for free or reduced-price meals; income-based eligibility for non-NSLP/SBP participants |
| Application Period | Varies by state; for example, Kansas accepts applications from January 27, 2025, to August 29, 2025 |
| Benefit Distribution | Benefits issued via Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards; funds must be used within 122 days of issuance |
| Official Resources | USDA SUN Bucks Program |
Understanding the SUN Bucks Program
The SUN Bucks Program aims to bridge the nutritional gap that may occur when school is out for the summer. By providing financial assistance, the program ensures that children continue to have access to healthy meals even when they are not in school.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for SUN Bucks varies by state but generally includes:
- Age Requirement: Children aged 0-22 years.
- School Participation: Enrollment in a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or the School Breakfast Program (SBP).
- Income Eligibility: Determination of eligibility for free or reduced-price meals based on household income.
It’s important to note that not all children receiving benefits like Medi-Cal are automatically eligible for SUN Bucks. Families may need to submit a school meal application or an Alternative Income Form to determine eligibility
Benefit Amount and Distribution
Each eligible child receives a one-time benefit of $120 per year to assist with grocery purchases during the summer months. These funds are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which functions similarly to a debit card and can be used at authorized retailers, including grocery stores, farmers markets, and select online retailers
SUN Bucks Program Application Process
The application process for SUN Bucks varies by state. Some families are automatically enrolled based on existing benefit programs, while others may need to apply. For instance, in Kansas:
- Automatic Enrollment: Households with eligible children identified by the Department for Children and Families (DCF) receive a notification letter in January and do not need to apply.
- Application Required: If a household does not receive a notification letter, they can apply through the DCF self-service portal starting January 27, 2025. Applications must be submitted by August 29, 2025.
Families are encouraged to check with their state’s administering agency for specific application procedures and deadlines.
Using SUN Bucks Benefits
SUN Bucks benefits can be used to purchase a variety of food items, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Other foods such as snack items and non-alcoholic beverages
However, benefits cannot be used to buy non-food items, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, vitamins, medicines, or hot foods prepared for immediate consumption.
Important Considerations
- Benefit Expiration: Funds must be used within 122 days of being loaded onto the EBT card. Unused benefits will be removed after this period.
- Immigration Status: Receiving SUN Bucks does not affect a child’s or family’s immigration status.
- Concurrent Program Participation: Children receiving SUN Bucks can still participate in other summer meal programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the SUN Bucks Program still active in 2025?
Yes, the SUN Bucks Program is active in 2025, providing eligible families with assistance to purchase groceries during the summer months.
2. How much assistance does each child receive?
Each eligible child receives a one-time benefit of $120 per year.
3. Who is eligible for SUN Bucks?
Eligibility generally includes children aged 0-22 years who attend schools participating in the NSLP or SBP and are determined eligible for free or reduced-price meals based on household income.
4. How do I apply for SUN Bucks?
Application procedures vary by state. Some families are automatically enrolled, while others need to apply through their state’s administering agency. For example, in Kansas, applications can be submitted through the DCF self-service portal.
