The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has introduced the SUN Bucks program to assist families with school-aged children during the summer. The program provides additional financial support for groceries, helping families manage expenses when schools are closed and children lose access to school meals.
In the Published article by Newsweek, Eligible families can receive a one-time $120 payment per child. This initiative is part of a broader USDA effort to ensure children have access to nutritious meals year-round, even during summer vacation.
Key Details About the $120 Food Stamps Payment
Many families rely on school meal programs to provide balanced and nutritious meals. When schools are closed, food costs increase, and families may struggle to meet their children’s nutritional needs. SUN Bucks aims to address this issue by providing financial relief to families already enrolled in government assistance programs or school meal plans.
Who Is Eligible for the $120 SNAP Payment?
SUN Bucks targets families already receiving food assistance through these programs:
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program): Families currently receiving SNAP benefits automatically qualify for SUN Bucks.
- WIC, TANF, and FDPIR Beneficiaries: Families participating in Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) can also qualify.
- School Meal Program Participants: Families with children enrolled in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) who qualify for free or reduced-price meals are eligible.
How Will the Payments Be Distributed?
- Payment Amount: Eligible children will receive $120 each.
- Distribution Method: Funds will be added to the household’s existing SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. Families without an EBT card will receive a new one.
- Expiration: The funds must be used within 122 days. Unlike regular SNAP benefits, unused SUN Bucks do not roll over month-to-month.
How to Apply for SUN Bucks
Automatic Enrollment:
Families enrolled in SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or school meal programs will be automatically enrolled.
Manual Application:
Families not automatically enrolled but meeting the eligibility criteria can apply online through the USDA’s website. Check income requirements and follow application instructions provided on the SUN Bucks page.
Important Dates and Details
SUN Bucks payments began on June 14th and will continue to be distributed every two weeks until September. Families are encouraged to:
- Keep EBT Cards Secure: Protect your card from skimming or theft. Visit the NCDHHS Card Skimmers and Stolen FNS Benefits webpage for tips.
- Explore Additional Support: Families can also access free meals at schools or community sites through the Summer Nutrition Programs.
For more help, text FOOD to 304-304, call 1-866-3-HUNGRY, or visit summermeals4nckids.org.
The SUN Bucks program provides crucial support for families, ensuring children can access healthy meals throughout the summer. Check your eligibility and apply if needed to benefit from this helpful initiative.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
Premlata is a seasoned finance writer with a keen eye for unraveling complex global financial systems. From government benefits to energy rebates and recruitment trends, she empowers readers with actionable insights and clarity. When she’s not crafting impactful articles, you can find her sharing her expertise on LinkedIn or connecting via email at biswaspremlata@gmail.com.
