SUN Bucks grocery benefits feed hungry kids during the summer

Program has enrolled more than 390,000 kids

Minnesota is sending funds to families through the SUN Bucks program, formerly known as Summer EBT, to help families buy groceries for their school-aged children during the summer.

SUN Bucks will provide grocery-buying benefits to low-income families with school-aged children when schools are closed for the summer. Minnesota has issued SUN Bucks benefits to more than 390,000 children so far this summer. Children can be enrolled through Aug. 31, 2025.

The program provides families with a one-time benefit of $120 per eligible school-aged child during the summer months to purchase healthy foods. SUN Bucks EBT cards are sent to families on a rolling basis through the summer, starting in May. The benefits can be used at retailers that accept SNAP, such as grocery stores and farmers markets, to purchase healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, meats and other protein sources, whole grains and dairy.

“Summer can be difficult for families who rely on school meals to help feed their children,” said Department of Children, Youth, and Families Commissioner Tikki Brown. “Providing additional food support during this time can help alleviate that stress for families and ensures children stay healthy, setting them up for success all year round."

The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families, Minnesota Department of Education, and Minnesota IT Services are working together to determine eligibility and get the benefits to children and families across the state.

"Students who have access to nutritious food are less likely to fall behind on their learning and development because they aren't worrying about their next meal," said Department of Education Commissioner Willie Jett. "This program continues providing that access during the summer, just as the free school meals program does during the school year—ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive."

Many families will be automatically enrolled for SUN Bucks if they qualified between July 1, 2024 and Aug. 31, 2025 for free or reduced-price meals based on family income or if they participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP), Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Foster Care, or Medical Assistance (MA) and also meet the income requirements.

Households who are not sure if they are eligible can use the eligibility check tool to see if they qualify. For more information about SUN Bucks Program, including eligibility questions or FAQs, go to SUN Bucks / Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Family (mn.gov).