North Carolina’s Summer Nutrition Program: Ensuring No Child Goes Hungry During School Breaks
As the school year ends, North Carolina’s innovative SUN Programs step up to ensure that over 900,000 students who depend on school meals continue to receive nutritious food throughout the summer. These programs provide meals at no cost to youth 18 and under, aiming to bridge the gap left when schools close their doors for the summer break.
The SUN Meals Programs offer a communal dining experience at various school and community locations, allowing children and teenagers to enjoy meals while engaging with peers. In rural areas, SUN Meals To-Go are available, providing non-congregate meal options for pick-up or delivery. These can include multiple days’ worth of meals, ensuring consistent access to nutrition for those who need it most.
The initiative goes beyond just providing food. The NC SUN Meals Programs also incorporate fitness and educational enrichment activities, fostering a holistic approach to child development. To find local programs and activities, families can search #NCSummerMeals on social media. The mascot, Ray F. Sun, symbolizes the program’s commitment to “food, fitness, fun, and farm-to-summer activities,” with updates available by following @Ray4NCKids.
Program operators are encouraged to participate in the NC Farm to Summer Challenge. This initiative promotes the inclusion of local foods in meals, educational activities about agriculture and nutrition, and participation in events like the #NCCrunch for #FarmtoSchool Month. Resources and sign-up details can be found on the NCDPI, Office of School Nutrition website.
Administered by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) with federal support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), these programs primarily target economically distressed areas, ensuring that food-insecure children have access to meals. Sites are strategically located at schools, public housing centers, parks, and other community hubs.
Additionally, the SUN Bucks program, managed by the NC Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), offers further assistance. Families eligible for free or reduced-price school meals may receive a $120 grocery benefit per child, usable at grocery stores and markets. To determine eligibility and apply, visit the SUN Bucks website. Applications are due by August 31, 2025.
In alignment with federal civil rights laws, the SUN Programs and associated institutions prohibit discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or retaliation for past civil rights activities. Program information is available in multiple languages, and alternate communication methods are provided for individuals with disabilities. To file a discrimination complaint, individuals can complete a Form AD-3027 available online or through the USDA. Complaints can be mailed to the USDA Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights or emailed to program.intake@usda.gov.
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