The Summer EBT program is back this summer with a new name: SUN Bucks.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has rebranded all federal Summer Nutrition Programs under the SUN umbrella to highlight their positive impact on children across the country, including Minnesota. SUN Bucks helps kids thrive by providing families with resources to purchase healthy foods during the summer months.

What Is SUN Bucks?

SUN Bucks is an income-based food support program that offers eligible families $40 per month per child (a total of $120) during the summer. Funds are provided on SUN Bucks EBT cards and must be used within 122 days of issuance. Families are encouraged to use their benefits as soon as possible to avoid expiration.

Who Is Eligible?

Students are automatically enrolled in SUN Bucks if they are directly certified through programs such as:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP)
• Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
• Foster care or Medicaid
• Students identified as homeless, migrant, or runaway (categorically eligible)
• Students with an approved Application for Educational Benefits for free and reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program are also eligible.

For more information regarding this program, please visit this MDE webpage: 
https://dcyf.mn.gov/sun-bucks