Maryland has launched a new initiative, SUN Bucks, aimed at providing essential grocery benefits to approximately 500,000 students during school breaks. The program, administered by the Maryland Department of Human Services, is designed to ensure children have access to nutritious foods when school meal programs are not in operation.
SUN Bucks grants a one-time payment of $120 per child, which is deposited onto Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. These funds can be used to purchase groceries such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, and meats.
Ayesha Holmes, the Director of No Kid Hungry Maryland, emphasized the program's benefits, stating, "SUN Bucks helps connect kids with important nutrition, so they can return to school happy, healthy, and ready to learn." She also highlighted the collaborative effort between state and nonprofit organizations to roll out SUN Bucks in 2024.
While the benefit is automatically provided to most eligible families, there are instances where caregivers need to apply. For automatic eligibility, children must be participants in SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid, or must be determined eligible for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program at their schools.
Households that do not meet these criteria must apply for SUN Bucks benefits by August 31. This includes families whose children have not applied for free or reduced-price school meals and those not participating in the aforementioned welfare programs based on income.
The application process is supported with resources available both online and in print. Families can access information and apply through the official Maryland Department of Human Services website or through a dedicated online portal. Applications are available in both English and Spanish.
The rollout of SUN Bucks will continue over the next few weeks, with state officials and partners working to ensure that eligible families are aware of and can access the benefits.
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