This summer, Washington is launching SUN Bucks, a new program and an extension of SNAP benefits, aimed at providing food access to over 500,000 children. 

Washington's Sun Bucks Program

The Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program, authorized by the federal government in December 2022, is designed to provide assistance to children by addressing their nutritional needs throughout the summer months.

610KONA reported that Washington State is introducing a new program called Summer EBT, "SUN Bucks," which aims to provide families with a grocery benefit of $120 per eligible school-aged child during the summer break.

This new, permanent program is an excellent addition to the existing free meals available for kids of all ages at summer meal sites in their communities. 

However, what sets this program apart is its commitment to go above and beyond the offerings of school programs.

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SNAP Benefits: SUN Bucks Eligibility

Eligibility can vary, and there are certain cases where children may qualify automatically. Individuals attending schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) and meet the eligibility criteria through meal applications or Family Income Surveys will receive the benefit without any additional steps.

In addition, children between the ages of 8 and 18 who live in households that receive SNAP, Food Assistance Program (FAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or State-Funded Assistance (SFA) will also be eligible without needing to apply separately.

An application process is available for students who do not automatically qualify. In order to qualify, students need to be enrolled in a school that takes part in the NSLP or SBP and reside in a household that meets the NSLP Income Eligibility Guidelines for free or reduced-price meals. 

Online applications will soon be accessible in both English and Spanish, with a deadline for submission set on August 31, as per Marca.

Participating in the SUN Bucks benefits program will not have any impact on your immigration status. The Public Charge rule does not apply to this specific program.

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