More than 500,000 children will get $120 in nutrition benefits this summer

More than 500,000 Washington children will receive funds this summer to help buy food through a new Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer program called SUN Bucks. The Co-op is happy to accept SUN Bucks as we work toward providing even greater food access to our community.

In December 2022, the federal government authorized a permanent, nationwide Summer EBT program to support children who lose access to free and reduced-price school meals during the summer months. The Department of Social and Health Services received federal approval to implement SUN Bucks in April 2024 and is partnering with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction to distribute these benefits starting this summer.

"Students need nutritious meals to learn and grow," said State Superintendent Chris Reykdal. "The Summer EBT program provides essential support to children across Washington during the summer months when they don’t have their regular access to school meals. This program is an important way that we support the well-being of children and families across our state."

“No child should suffer from hunger,” said DSHS Secretary Jilma Meneses. “Every bit of support we can provide families is critically important, especially during the summer months when other resources are not as readily available.”

The SUN Bucks benefits, a one-time payment of $120 per eligible child in each household, will be deposited onto new SUN Bucks cards and mailed beginning in early June.

Press Release info received from DSHS and the Office Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Now Accepting SUN Bucks!