Food trays in a school cafeteria. (KOIN)
(WHTM) — Applications are now open for a new seasonal summer nutrition program.
SUN Bucks is a federal program that provides households with SNAP-like benefits to buy food during the summer when school is out.
Applications will be accepted until August 31st.
“Summer is a time when many children miss out on the free and reduced-price meals they receive during the school year, and families may need a little extra help putting healthy meals on the table,” said Secretary of Human Services Dr. Val Arkoosh. “The new SUN Bucks program will provide critical funding to eligible households to make up the shortfall over the summer, ensuring Pennsylvania’s children stay fed and well while schools are closed.”
The program provides a one-time grant of $120 for each eligible child to purchase food. This is the program’s first year, so summer 2024 benefits will be paid out starting in mid-August. All 2024 SUN Bucks benefits will be paid out by the end of October.
Here are some ways your child can automatically qualify for SUN Bucks without having to apply:
- You or your family already qualify for SNAP or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
- If you have income that qualifies for the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program (NSLP) and you are already eligible for Medicaid, or
- If you apply for and qualify for free or reduced price school meals.
