California gives $120 per child for food: SUN Bucks deadline is August 31

California has announced that eligible families will receive $120 per child for food assistance through the SUN Bucks program, with applications due by August 31. The initiative, officially known as the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program, aims to support families during summer months when schools are closed and free meals are no longer available. Families who have not been automatically enrolled must submit their applications by August 31 to qualify for benefits. Applications submitted after this date will be considered for the following annual cycle. The SUN Bucks program operates similarly to CalFresh, providing financial aid to help purchase groceries during the summer. It expands access to food for children who meet eligibility criteria. Starting in May, cards began being mailed to eligible children and will continue until the process is completed. Those who apply before August 31 and meet requirements will receive a card by mail. The program is designed to assist families with young children aged 0 to 22 years who attend schools participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or the School Breakfast Program (SBP). To qualify for SUN Bucks, families must meet income guidelines set by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). Most children can participate if they attend a school that offers free or reduced-price meals. Parents can verify their child’s eligibility by submitting a Universal Benefits Application or a Free/Reduced Price Meals Request directly to the relevant school. If a family qualifies under one of the specified criteria, such as receiving CalFresh, CalWORKs, or Medi-Cal, the child will be automatically enrolled in the program without needing to take additional action. For those not automatically enrolled, the deadline to apply is August 31. Applications received after this date will be processed for the upcoming year. It is crucial to note that forms should not be sent directly to the agency but must be handled by the school to determine eligibility. The CDSS recommends using the SUN Bucks Eligibility Tool to assess potential qualification. For further information, parents are advised to contact their local school district or educational institution. The program is part of broader efforts to ensure food security for low-income families during periods when school-based meal programs are unavailable. By extending financial support through the summer, California aims to reduce hunger among children and provide stability for families facing economic challenges. The initiative reflects ongoing commitment to addressing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable populations through state-funded assistance programs. The distribution of SUN Bucks cards began in May and will continue throughout the summer. This ensures that eligible children receive timely access to food assistance. As the application period nears its end, authorities urge families to act promptly to secure benefits. With the deadline approaching, many families are likely to finalize their applications in the coming weeks. The program continues to serve as a vital resource for ensuring nutrition and well-being during the summer months.