Ensuring Hunger-Free Summers for Maine's Children

As Maine students enjoy their much-deserved summer vacation, many families face the challenge of providing adequate nutrition for their children in the absence of free school lunches. To address this pressing issue, the Department of Health and Human Services has unveiled the innovative SUN Bucks program, offering a lifeline to families in need.

Empowering Families to Feed their Children this Summer

Bridging the Nutrition Gap During School Breaks

During the summer months, when school is out, many children in Maine lose access to the free and reduced-price meals they rely on during the academic year. This can leave families struggling to put food on the table, exacerbating the problem of food insecurity that is already on the rise in the state. The SUN Bucks program aims to alleviate this burden, providing a one-time benefit of 0 for each eligible child to help families cover their summer grocery expenses until classes resume in the fall.

Automatic Benefits for SNAP Participants, Application Process for Others

For households currently enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the SUN Bucks benefits are automatically uploaded to their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. However, families who are not enrolled in SNAP but believe their child is eligible must apply for the program by August 15th to qualify. The cards must be activated within 45 days of receipt, and any unused benefits will be removed from the card after 122 days.

Expanding Access to Nutritious Groceries Statewide

The SUN Bucks can be used to purchase groceries at any location that accepts SNAP benefits, ensuring that families have access to a wide range of nutritious options to meet their children's dietary needs. This flexibility allows families to make informed choices and stretch their resources further, prioritizing the well-being of their children during the summer break.

Addressing the Growing Tide of Food Insecurity in Maine

The launch of the SUN Bucks program comes at a critical time, as food insecurity continues to rise in Maine. According to a Feeding America study, more than 185,000 people in the state struggled to afford necessities in 2022, with one in five children facing food insecurity. The Department of Health and Human Services estimates that nearly 100,000 children are eligible for the SUN Bucks benefits, underscoring the significant impact this program can have in supporting families and ensuring that no child goes hungry during the summer months.

A Beacon of Hope for Struggling Families

The SUN Bucks program represents a holistic approach to addressing the challenges faced by Maine's families during the summer break. By providing direct financial assistance, expanding access to nutritious groceries, and reaching out to those in need, the state is taking proactive steps to ensure that every child in Maine has access to the nourishment they require to thrive. As families navigate the summer months, the SUN Bucks program stands as a beacon of hope, empowering them to focus on the joys of summer while taking care of their children's essential needs.