Maryland Governor Wes Moore has unveiled Maryland SUN Bucks, a new initiative aimed at helping families purchase groceries for school-aged children during the summer months. This program, which builds on the state's existing Summer Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), is set to benefit a record 543,000 children statewide, thanks to more than $60 million in new federal funding.
"During the summer, many children lose the free and reduced-price meals they receive at school, and households may need help putting food on the table. Our administration is here to help fill that gap," Gov. Moore stated. "Tackling childhood poverty requires consistent, targeted action so all Marylanders can stay healthy as they play, grow, and learn. The launch of Maryland SUN Bucks marks one such action – and it won't be the last."
The program significantly expands the reach of Maryland's Summer SNAP program, extending benefits across all 24 jurisdictions in the state. Unlike previous iterations, local government matching funds are no longer required, ensuring broader accessibility.
"There isn't a single jurisdiction in Maryland that isn't interested in helping fight childhood poverty. Maryland SUN Bucks extends food security provided by school meals to summertime; and it represents the single largest investment Maryland has seen to help feed our children," said Maryland Department of Human Services Secretary Rafael López. "We are grateful for our partners in the state legislature and the Biden Administration for working with us to make sure Maryland's children do not experience hunger."
Under the Maryland SUN Bucks program, eligible households will receive $40 each month in June, July, and August, totaling $120 per eligible student. These benefits can be used at authorized retailers, including grocery stores and farmers markets.
The program aims to automatically cover up to 90% of eligible Maryland families. Families currently receiving SNAP benefits will see Maryland SUN Bucks automatically added to the head-of-household's Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. For children not enrolled in SNAP, a separate white Maryland SUN Bucks card will be issued in the child's name.
Maryland SUN Bucks supplements the free meals available to children at summer meal sites within their communities. This initiative ensures that children have access to nutritious food even when school is out of session.
"For many children, schools are lifelines to regular and nutritious meals. Maryland SUN Bucks will improve access to healthy food options during the summer months," said State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey M. Wright. "This innovative partnership connects families to a basic resource at a critical time."
For more information, families can visit the official website at dhs.maryland.gov/sunbucks or call 1-800-332-6347.
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