Summer can be a real financial challenge for many families in the United States. This is especially true for those who rely on school meals during the year. To ease this burden, the government has the SUN Bucks program, an initiative that provides food assistance to families during school vacations.
This program, also known as Summer EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer), is designed for the youngest children. Authorities want to make sure they keep receiving proper nutrition. Even in summer, when they don't have access to meals offered at schools.
Sun Bucks, a great help for the youngest children
SUN Bucks are food benefits intended for families with children who qualify for free or reduced-price school lunch. The goal is to ensure that minors keep having access to healthy food during the summer.
In 2025, this program is available in many states, benefiting millions of low-income families. Depending on the state and the situation, families can receive up to $120 per child to spend on food during the summer.
SUN Bucks funds are delivered through an EBT card, similar to a debit card. Beneficiaries can use it at supermarkets and grocery stores that accept SNAP. Some of the main chains where you can use your SUN Bucks include:
- Walmart
- Target (groceries only)
- Aldi
- Kroger
- Costco (only in some states)
- Safeway
- Publix
- H-E-B
- Food 4 Less
- Local Hispanic stores and community markets that accept SNAP
In addition, many stores allow the use of the EBT card for online purchases, whether for home delivery or in-store pickup. For example, Walmart and Amazon allow you to use SUN Bucks for digital purchases in certain regions. You only need to register your EBT card in the online store's system and make sure the products are eligible.
This is what you can buy with Sun Bucks
SUN Bucks can only be used to buy food. Some examples of products you can buy with these coupons include:
1) Fresh fruits and vegetables
2) Bread, tortillas, and cereals
3) Milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products
4) Eggs and proteins such as meat, chicken, or fish
5) Legumes, rice, and pasta
6) Frozen foods
7) 100% natural juices and healthy snacks
This is how you can know if your children are eligible to receive the payments
If your child already receives free or reduced-price school lunches, or if you participate in programs such as SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid, you're in luck. This means they automatically qualify for SUN Bucks. Getting more information about how to apply for the benefits is very simple.
You just have to visit the official SUN Bucks program portal in your state or contact the local school district. Some states, such as California, have specific portals to check eligibility and more details.