The SUN Bucks Program, officially known as the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) initiative, remains active and expands further in 2025.
This vital program aims to reduce food insecurity among children from low-income families by providing $120 to $150 per child per month for groceries during the summer months.
The good news? Arkansas, Nevada, and Michigan are now joining the program, offering even more families access to critical food benefits.
If you’re wondering how to qualify, how much you can receive, and how to make the most of it, keep reading!
SUN Bucks Program: Key Details
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| What is SUN Bucks? | A summer-focused EBT program offering food benefits to low-income families with children. |
| States Joining in 2025 | Arkansas, Nevada, and Michigan. |
| Who Qualifies? | Families already receiving SNAP or children eligible for free/reduced school lunches. |
| Benefit Amount | $120–$150 per month per child for groceries during summer. |
| How to Use Benefits | Accepted at grocery stores, farmer’s markets, and approved online retailers. |
What Is the SUN Bucks Program?
The SUN Bucks Program is an extension of existing federal food assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
Its primary goal is to ensure children from low-income families have access to nutritious meals during the summer when schools are closed.
Why Is It Important?
The summer months can be difficult for families relying on school meal programs. SUN Bucks bridges this gap by providing additional funds for groceries, helping families buy essential food items like fresh produce, dairy, whole grains, and proteins.
Key Statistics from 2024:
- 4 million children benefited across 25 states.
- Over $1 billion in food benefits distributed.
- Food insecurity among participating households dropped by 15%, according to the USDA.
New States Joining in 2025
For 2025, the USDA has expanded the SUN Bucks Program to include Arkansas, Nevada, and Michigan. This means more families will be able to access these summer food benefits.
What This Means for Families
Families in these states can expect:
- Automatic Benefit Deposits: Funds will be added directly to their EBT cards each month during the summer (June, July, August).
- Expanded Retail Options: Benefits can be used at approved grocery stores, farmer’s markets, and online platforms like Amazon and Walmart.
How Much Can Families Receive?
Eligible families will receive between $120 and $150 per child per month during the summer. The exact amount may vary depending on household size and state funding allocations.
Example:
Family of Three Children
- Monthly Benefit: $450
- Total for the Summer (June, July, August): $1,350
These funds can make a significant difference in covering basic food needs, ensuring children have access to healthy meals throughout the summer.
Maximizing Your SUN Bucks Benefits
Here are a few practical tips to stretch your SUN Bucks as far as possible:
- Plan Meals in Advance
Focus on affordable, healthy staples like fresh produce, grains, and proteins. - Visit Farmer’s Markets
Many farmer’s markets accept EBT and offer fresh, locally grown produce at lower prices. Some even offer discounts for EBT users. - Combine with Other Offers
Take advantage of state-level promotions for EBT users, especially at farmer’s markets. - Explore Online Shopping
Platforms like Amazon, Instacart, and Walmart offer competitive prices and convenient delivery options. - Track Your Balance
Regularly check your EBT card balance to manage your funds and avoid surprises at checkout.
Success Stories
The real-world impact of the SUN Bucks Program is best illustrated through stories from families who have benefited:
Maria Rodriguez, Texas (2024):
“The SUN Bucks program helped us buy fresh fruits and vegetables for the first time in months. My kids loved the healthier meals, and it took a lot of stress off my shoulders.”
Stories like Maria’s show how the program directly improves the lives of families by promoting better nutrition and reducing financial strain.
Other Food Assistance Programs
While SUN Bucks is specifically focused on summer benefits, it complements several year-round programs:
| Program | Focus |
|---|---|
| SNAP | Provides monthly food assistance for low-income families year-round. |
| WIC | Supports pregnant women, new mothers, and children under five with nutritional help. |
| Community Food Banks | Offers free food supplies to families in need across the country. |
Common Challenges and Solutions
1. Awareness
Many eligible families are unaware of the SUN Bucks Program. Schools and local organizations are working with the USDA to improve outreach and increase participation.
2. Access
In rural areas, finding approved retailers can be a challenge. States are addressing this by:
- Expanding mobile markets.
- Increasing participation of online retailers like Instacart and Amazon.
