New SUN Bucks program helps feed Utah kids during summer
Apr 30, 2025, 1:58 PM | Updated: 4:42 pm
Different cheeses at Reams in Sandy on Tuesday, April 4, 2023.
SALT LAKE CITY — This summer, families can receive additional assistance feeding their children while schools are closed.
Utah’s SUN Bucks program is rolling out as part of the federal Summer EBT program, aiming to combat childhood hunger.
“It’s really intended to help families whose children would have received free or reduced school lunch during the school year to buy food during the summer when schools are in session,” said Becky Wickstrom, public information officer with the Utah Department of Workforce Services.
Eligible children will receive a one-time payment of $120 that they can be use to buy groceries at grocery stores, farmers markets and other places that accept SNAP benefits.
Eligibility requirements for SUN Bucks
There are three ways to enroll in SUN Bucks, and two are automatic.
School-aged children (6–18 years old) whose families receive assistance such as SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid—or who qualify for free or reduced-price school lunch—are eligible for the program.
Additionally, those who are already receiving federal assistance like SNAP will be automatically enrolled in the SUN Bucks program and do not need to apply.
Children who receive free or discounted lunch but do not receive other public assistance may be eligible and can apply for SUN Bucks. This includes students who attend schools where everyone automatically receives free lunch.
Applications must be submitted by Aug. 31, 2025.
“We anticipate about 220,000 Utah students could be eligible for SUN Bucks,” said Wickstrom. “We’re hoping that families take advantage of this program and get the help that they need.”
Funds will either be added to a preexisting SNAP account or delivered on an EBT card via mail starting in June.
How to use SUN Bucks and other summer food assistance programs
SUN Bucks can be used to buy food like fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy and whole grains at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other places that accept SNAP benefits.
These funds can also be used alongside the Double Up Food Bucks program where participating farmers markets, every $1 spent earns an additional $2 to spend on fresh produce.
“SUN Bucks is part of a bigger federal program, so even if you participate in SUN Bucks you can still participate in some of the local food sites where you can pick up summer meals for your children,” said Wickstrom.
Other summer programs include SUN Meals and SUN Meals To-Go.
Related reading:
- Could a new bill be the answer to Utah’s school lunch debt?
- Utah Senate sends free school lunch bill to governor
- Funding shortage lands 300 seniors on waitlist for Meals on Wheels
