The Biden administration launched its package of summer school meals programs, including the new summer EBT benefit, under the name of SUN Programs on Tuesday. SUN Bucks, the EBT program, was expected to help low-income families buy groceries for 21 million school-age children during the summer at a projected cost of $2.5 billion.
Some 35 states, the five U.S. territories, and four tribes are participating in SUN Bucks, which has the potential to reach seven of every 10 school-age children in the country. Participation in school food programs usually plummets when school is out for the summer. Families enrolled in SNAP or social welfare programs will be automatically enrolled in SUN Bucks, which provides $120 per child for groceries.
“USDA’s SUN Programs offer more options for families to conveniently access the essential nutrition children need to thrive, learn, and grow during summer and beyond,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.
Also part of SUN Programs were SUN Meals, served at schools, parks, and other gathering places, and SUN Meals To Go, which offers pick-up and delivery options in some rural areas not served by SUN Meals. Both of the programs operate in communities with high poverty rates and are aimed at children up to age 18.
The USDA webpage for SUN Bucks was available here.