SUN Bucks summer nutrition program provides grocery benefits to children

The SUN Bucks summer nutrition program is active in several states, including Virginia and California, to combat childhood food insecurity during summer months when school-provided meals are unavailable.

In Virginia, Governor Abigail Spanberger has urged eligible families to apply for the benefit before the August 31 deadline. The program provides a one-time $120 benefit per eligible school-aged child. To date, more than 628,000 Virginia children have received benefits, though officials estimate nearly 705,000 children may qualify. Funds can be used for groceries such as meat, dairy, and produce at retailers accepting SNAP EBT.

In California, the program is administered by the Department of Social Services, with applications also due by August 31. Eligible children receive $120 total, distributed as $40 per month for June, July, and August. Qualification is based on receiving CalFresh, CalWORKs, or Medi-Cal, or attending schools participating in the National School Lunch Program. Benefits are issued via S-EBT cards and must be used within 122 days.