USDA’s SUN Programs: Free Summer Food Options for Kids & Grocery Benefits in 2025

When school is out, many families worry about how to keep kids fed.

USDA’s SUN Programs are here to help, offering free meals and grocery benefits so kids get the nutrition they need all summer.

What Are SUN Programs?

The SUN Programs (Simplified Summer Food Service Programs) provide meals, snacks, and grocery benefits to children and teens during the summer months, ensuring they have access to healthy food even when school meals aren’t available.

They include:

1. SUN Meals (eat-on-site meals and snacks)

2. SUN Meals To-Go (pick-up or delivery in rural areas)

3. SUN Bucks ($120 summer grocery benefit per eligible child)

• Summer EBT 2025: Who’s Getting SUN Bucks This Year and How Much You’ll Receive

• Parents: Here’s How to Receive $120 per Child for Summer Groceries

SUN Meals: Free Meals for All Kids

SUN Meals allow children aged 18 and under to receive free meals and snacks at schools, parks, libraries, and community centers, no application required.

You can find SUN Meals locations near you using the USDA Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder.

As of June 26, 2025, the site finder includes data for most states and territories, with updates continuing throughout summer.

SUN Meals To-Go: Meals in Rural Communities

In rural areas where it may be harder to access on-site meals, SUN Meals To-Go offers meal pick-up or delivery options for children 18 and under, with no application required.

Use the USDA Site Finder to check if SUN Meals To-Go is available in your area and to locate pick-up sites. For delivery options, contact your local site or state agency.

SUN Bucks: $120 Grocery Benefit Per Child

SUN Bucks (also known as Summer EBT) provides $120 in grocery benefits per eligible school-aged child during summer, which can be used at authorized retailers for groceries.

Children may receive SUN Bucks in addition to SNAP, WIC, and SUN Meals.

Who Gets SUN Bucks?

1. Children in households receiving SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or similar income-based benefits are automatically enrolled.

2. Children eligible for free or reduced-price school meals may also be automatically enrolled.

3. Families who are not automatically enrolled but meet income limits may apply directly through their state, Tribe, or territory.

SUN Bucks may be added to your SNAP account, issued as a separate EBT card, or distributed by other methods, depending on your location.

How to Access SUN Programs

1. Find SUN Meals or SUN Meals To-Go: Use the USDA Site Finder to locate free summer meal sites near you.

2. Check SUN Bucks eligibility: Contact your state’s administering agency or visit your state’s SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) page to learn how to apply if you are not automatically enrolled.

-

Don't miss out on general benefits information!

Subscribe for the latest updates, expert advice, and valuable tips to help you maximize your benefits and financial well-being.

Stay informed—sign up now!