RICHMOND, Va. — Virginia families have until Monday, August 31, to apply for SUN Bucks, a summer nutrition program that provides eligible families with $120 for each qualifying school-age child.
On Sunday, Governor Abigail Spanberger encouraged families who have not yet received the benefit to apply before the deadline.
More than 628,000 Virginia children have received SUN Bucks since the program launched in June.
State officials estimate nearly 705,000 children are eligible statewide, meaning thousands of families may still qualify.
SUN Bucks is intended to help families cover food costs during the summer months, when children do not have access to free or reduced-price meals provided through schools.
“Congress made the largest cuts to food assistance in history last year — but here in Virginia, we are using every tool we have to keep kids fed,” said Governor Abigail Spanberger. “Programs like SUN Bucks and SUN Meals are a crucial way to fill that gap when school is out. Virginia families still have time to apply to receive their SUN Bucks this summer, and my Administration is committed to making sure families can get the help they need as easily as possible.”
Benefits can be used to purchase groceries, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy products and meat, at grocery stores, farmers markets and other retailers that accept SNAP EBT benefits.
Families can also increase the value of their SUN Bucks through Virginia Fresh Match, a network of farmers markets and local food retailers that doubles the value of SNAP purchases of fruits and vegetables.
Virginia is one of 39 states participating in the federal Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer program, known in Virginia as SUN Bucks.
The Virginia Department of Social Services has introduced an online application for households seeking benefits.
Families can apply online, print and mail a paper application, or call the SUN Bucks Call Center at 866-513-1414 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday.
For additional information and to apply, click HERE.
