North Carolina Launches SUN Bucks Program to Combat Summer Hunger
This summer, North Carolina is taking significant steps to address child hunger with the introduction of the SUN Bucks program. The initiative, announced by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, is set to benefit over 1 million children across the state with an initial distribution of $121 million.
Governor Josh Stein emphasized the critical need for such programs, stating, “Too many children are vulnerable to hunger in the summertime because they lose access to the free and reduced-price meals they depend on during the school year.” The SUN Bucks program aims to support families in providing nutritious meals for their children during the summer months.
Eligible families will receive a one-time payment of $120 per child, which can be utilized at various retailers and farmers markets throughout North Carolina. These benefits are facilitated through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, ensuring ease of access to healthy food options. The SUN Bucks are part of the broader NC Summer Nutrition Programs for Kids, which are essential in supporting families during school breaks.
The distribution of SUN Bucks is set to commence on June 1, 2026, targeting families already enrolled in programs such as Food and Nutrition Services. Most eligible families were automatically enrolled and informed via email, text, or phone. New SUN Bucks cards are expected to arrive by mid-June, although delivery may take up to eight weeks.
The program’s implementation is supported by a coalition of philanthropic organizations, including the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation, The Duke Endowment, and Coca-Cola Consolidated, among others. Jehan Benton-Clark, VP of Grantmaking & Strategy at Dogwood Health Trust, stated, “Every child in North Carolina deserves reliable access to nourishing food and the opportunity to thrive.”
Families who have not been automatically enrolled or are unsure of their eligibility can apply through the SUN Bucks application page. Additional resources, such as an interactive eligibility quiz, are available to assist families in determining their qualification for the program. For inquiries, families can visit the SUN Bucks website or contact the NC SUN Bucks Call Center.
Governor Stein’s recommended budget for the fiscal year 2026-2027 includes provisions for continuous funding of the SUN Bucks program, underscoring the administration’s commitment to tackling food insecurity among children. In collaboration with the USDA, NCDHHS, and the NC Department of Public Instruction, the SUN Bucks program exemplifies a successful public-private partnership aimed at ensuring no child goes hungry this summer.
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