The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has introduced the SUN Bucks initiative to support families with school-age children during the summer months. This program provides an additional $120 per eligible child to help cover the increased grocery expenses when school meals are unavailable.
Understanding the SUN Bucks Program
SUN Bucks is a federal program administered by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service, designed to assist families who rely on school meal programs. During the summer, when children are not attending school, these families often face higher food costs. To alleviate this burden, SUN Bucks offers a one-time payment of $120 per eligible child, ensuring continued access to nutritious meals.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SUN Bucks program, families must meet specific criteria:
- SNAP Participants: Households currently receiving SNAP benefits are automatically eligible. Each eligible child in the household will receive the $120 payment without additional application requirements.
- Other Assistance Programs: Families participating in programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) may also qualify.
- School Meal Programs: Children enrolled in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) who are eligible for free or reduced-price meals based on family income are eligible. Families not receiving SNAP benefits but meeting these income criteria can apply for SUN Bucks.
Application Process
- Automatic Enrollment: Families already receiving SNAP benefits do not need to apply separately. The $120 payment will be added to their existing Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards.
- Application for Non-SNAP Households: Families not enrolled in SNAP but whose children qualify for free or reduced-price school meals can apply for SUN Bucks through their state’s application process.
Payment Distribution
- Issuance Method: Eligible families will receive the $120 payment on their EBT cards. If a family does not have an EBT card, a new one will be issued specifically for this program.
- Usage Period: The funds are available for use for 122 days from the date of issuance. It is advisable to utilize the benefits within this period to ensure they do not expire.
State Participation and Payment Dates
The availability and distribution dates of SUN Bucks vary by state. For instance, in New York, the program began issuing benefits in August 2024, with payments distributed throughout the summer months.
CBS News Similarly, other states have their own schedules for distributing these benefits.
Benefits of the Program
- Financial Relief: Provides additional funds to cover increased food expenses during the summer.
- Nutritional Support: Ensures children have access to healthy meals when school meal programs are not in operation.
- Economic Stability: Assists families in maintaining their nutritional needs without compromising other essential expenses.
FAQs
How do I know if I qualify for SUN Bucks?
If your household receives SNAP benefits, you are automatically eligible. If not, your child must be enrolled in a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program and meet the income criteria for free or reduced-price meals.
When will I receive the $120 payment?
The payment schedule varies by state. It is typically issued during the summer months, with specific dates determined by your state’s program administration.
Can I use SUN Bucks at any store?
Yes, SUN Bucks can be used at any retailer that accepts SNAP benefits, including grocery stores, farmers markets, and other authorized vendors.
Do I need to apply separately for SUN Bucks if I already receive SNAP?
No, if you are already receiving SNAP benefits, the $120 payment will be automatically added to your existing EBT card.
What happens if I don’t use the $120 within 122 days?
Any unused funds will expire after 122 days from the date of issuance. It is recommended to use the benefits within this period to avoid losing them.
The SUN Bucks program is a valuable resource for families during the summer months, ensuring that children continue to receive nutritious meals even when school is not in session. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and payment distribution, families can effectively utilize this benefit to support their nutritional needs.
