Launched in 2025, the SUN Bucks Program—officially known as the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) initiative—is helping millions of families tackle food insecurity during summer break. With schools closed, many children miss out on the free or reduced meals they typically receive. SUN Bucks fills that gap by providing extra grocery money through EBT cards.
This year, even more states have joined the movement, expanding the program’s reach. If you’re wondering what this means for your family or your state, here’s a complete breakdown of how SUN Bucks works, who qualifies, and how to stretch those benefits further.
Overview
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| What is SUN Bucks? | Summer EBT providing food benefits to children from low-income families. |
| States Joining in 2025 | Arkansas, Nevada, Michigan (USDA official list). |
| Who Qualifies? | Families on SNAP or kids eligible for free/reduced-price school meals. |
| Key Benefits | $120–$150/month per child for groceries during summer. |
| Where to Use | Grocery stores, farmer’s markets, online retailers. |
The program continues to grow, and with new states like Arkansas, Nevada, and Michigan participating, more kids will have access to nutritious meals during the summer.
Program
SUN Bucks builds on existing food assistance programs like SNAP and the National School Lunch Program. It targets the months when schools are out—June, July, and August—ensuring that kids don’t go hungry just because school’s out for the summer.
Impact
In just one year, the program has made a serious difference:
- Reached 4 million kids in 25 states
- Distributed more than $1 billion in grocery benefits
- Cut food insecurity by 15% in participating areas
And with more states joining in 2025, those numbers are only expected to climb.
Importance
During the school year, 22 million kids depend on school meals. When summer comes, that support often disappears. SUN Bucks helps bridge the gap with monthly grocery money.
Promoting Better Nutrition
The benefits aren’t limited to processed food. Families can buy healthy groceries like fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy—helping kids eat better and stay energized.
Expansion
For 2025, the USDA has added:
- Arkansas
- Nevada
- Michigan
This is great news for families in these states. Benefits will be added directly to EBT cards, making it super simple for parents to shop.
Amount
Families can receive between $120 to $150 per child per month depending on the state and household size.
Example:
| Children | Monthly Benefit | Total for Summer |
|---|---|---|
| 1 child | $150 | $450 |
| 3 children | $450 | $1,350 |
That’s a huge help when grocery bills are piling up.
Tips
Want to make your SUN Bucks go further? Try these:
- Plan meals ahead to reduce food waste
- Shop farmer’s markets for fresh and affordable produce
- Look for EBT discounts (some states offer bonus credits at markets)
- Check your EBT balance regularly
- Try online shopping on platforms like Walmart, Amazon, and Instacart
Stories
Parents are seeing real results. Maria Rodriguez, a mom from Texas, shared:
“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.”
These stories are the heart of what makes the program so impactful.
Comparison
Here’s how SUN Bucks stacks up to other programs:
| Program | Focus | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| SUN Bucks | Summer meals for kids | Summer months only |
| SNAP | General food assistance | Year-round |
| WIC | Support for women & young kids | Year-round |
| Food Banks | Emergency food | Year-round, local |
SUN Bucks stands out for being seasonal and child-focused.
Challenges
Many families don’t know they’re eligible. The USDA is working with schools and local partners to spread the word.
Access
Families in rural areas may lack access to approved retailers. States are stepping up by:
- Adding mobile farmer’s markets
- Expanding online EBT options
Programs like this can only work if people know about them—and can use them.
The SUN Bucks Program is one of the most effective tools for fighting child hunger in summer. With new states joining, expanded access, and higher benefit amounts, 2025 looks like a turning point in how we support families during the toughest months. If your state participates, be sure to take full advantage—it’s a resource designed to make life easier and healthier for your family.
FAQs
Which states joined in 2025?
Arkansas, Nevada, and Michigan joined SUN Bucks in 2025.
How much do families get?
Between $120–$150 per child each month for summer.
Who qualifies for SUN Bucks?
Families on SNAP or kids with free/reduced school lunch.
Where can I use SUN Bucks?
At grocery stores, farmer’s markets, and online retailers.
Is the program automatic?
Yes, funds are added directly to your EBT card.
