Families in the Newman Crows Landing Unified School District may be eligible for SUN Bucks, a new California program designed to help cover grocery costs during the summer months. With up to $120 per child, the initiative ensures that students continue to have access to nutritious food when school meals are unavailable.
SUN Bucks is California’s version of the Summer EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) program, aimed at combating food insecurity when schools are closed. In its first year, the program helped over 4.3 million children, making California one of the first states to launch the initiative. This program is part of a broader effort to ensure children have consistent access to meals year-round, particularly those from low-income families who rely on school meal programs during the academic year.
Governor Gavin Newsom has emphasized the importance of programs like SUN Bucks, stating that no child in California should go hungry, especially during the summer months when many families face financial strain. Experts agree that ensuring food security for children during school breaks has long-term benefits, helping improve concentration, health, and overall well-being. The financial assistance provided through SUN Bucks is intended to ease the burden on families while allowing them to provide balanced, nutritious meals throughout the summer.
Eligibility for SUN Bucks includes children ages 6 to 18 who receive free or reduced-price meals, participate in CalFresh, CalWORKS, or Medi-Cal, or are experiencing homelessness, foster care, or living in migrant families. The majority of eligible children are automatically enrolled if they are part of state assistance programs, eliminating the need for families to apply separately in many cases. However, officials advise families who are unsure about their enrollment status to check with their local school district or state benefits office.
For every eligible child, families will receive $40 per month over the course of the summer, totaling $120. The funds are distributed through S-EBT cards, which will be mailed directly to recipients’ homes. Officials urge families to update their mailing addresses to avoid delays in receiving benefits. Additionally, funds must be used within 122 days from the date they are issued, as any unused balance will expire and cannot be replaced.
State officials note that California’s agricultural industry and local grocery stores also benefit from SUN Bucks, as families use their funds to purchase fresh produce, dairy, grains, and other essential grocery items. Unlike some previous food assistance programs that were limited to certain purchases, SUN Bucks allows families to buy a broad range of foods, helping parents make more flexible choices for their children’s meals. Many local markets, including independent grocery stores and larger chains, accept SUN Bucks, ensuring that families can shop in a variety of locations.
To receive benefits on time, families must submit a Universal Benefits Application (UBA), available online or in paper form. Paper applications can be downloaded or picked up at local schools. The UBA may also unlock additional services, including internet assistance and transportation support, providing further relief for families who need extra support. Importantly, applying will not impact immigration status or a child’s ability to receive free school meals in the future.
The priority deadline for applications is May 30, 2025, ensuring benefits arrive when summer break begins. Families who miss this deadline can still apply until August 31, 2025, though delays in processing may affect when benefits are received.
For more information, families can contact Maria Barrera, Director of Nutrition Services, at (209) 862-2964 Extension 264, or Ashlie Uribe, Nutrition Services Secretary, at (209) 894-5193. Assistance is also available through the SUN Bucks Helpline at (877) 328-9677.
As summer approaches, officials encourage families in Newman Crows Landing USD to take advantage of the program to ensure children receive essential food assistance during the break. With the cost of groceries rising, SUN Bucks aims to provide much-needed relief, helping families stretch their budgets while maintaining healthy meal options for their children.
California’s commitment to food security continues to evolve, with SUN Bucks serving as a crucial step in reducing child hunger across the state. By providing financial assistance for groceries, the program bridges the gap between school meal programs and summer months, ensuring that children can access the nourishment they need to grow and thrive. Families are strongly encouraged to apply before the deadline to secure their benefits, taking advantage of this vital resource during the break.
