Eligible Pennsylvania families will once again receive crucial grocery assistance this summer through the 2025 SUN Bucks Program, a federal initiative designed to help feed school-age children during the summer months when school meals are unavailable.

Authorized by Congress in 2022, the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) or SUN Bucks program provides $40 per month for each eligible child during June, July, and August–a total of $120 per child. The program is administered jointly by the Pennsylvania Departments of Human Services (DHS) and Education (PDE), under the guidance of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Most families will not need to apply to receive benefits. Children are automatically eligible if they: Qualify for free or reduced-price school meals through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP), or Are on the state’s direct-certified list and of compulsory school age, even if they didn’t attend an NSLP/SBP school.

Each household will receive the $120 benefit per child via a Pennsylvania ACCESS EBT card, if one is already in use. If not, DHS will send benefits to a previously issued SUN Bucks card. If neither of those are available, a new SUN Bucks EBT card will be issued.

Families unsure of their eligibility or whether they need to apply can use the SUN Bucks Eligibility Navigator tool on the DHS website to receive clear, guided information about their specific circumstances.

To learn more or check your eligibility, visit the following resources: DHS SUN Bucks website: www.dhs.pa.gov/sunbucks , SUN Bucks Family Flyers: Available at the bottom of the DHS SUN Bucks page, Pre-recorded FAQ Line: (877) 762-1575, Statewide DHS Customer Service Center: (877) 395-8930 (Philadelphia residents should call (215) 560-7226), County Assistance Office (CAO).

The SUN Bucks Program plays a vital role in supporting children’s nutrition during the summer break, helping ensure that no child goes hungry when school cafeterias are closed. For families across Warren County and beyond, it offers not only financial relief but peace of mind.

Parents are encouraged to review their eligibility, confirm their mailing information, and keep an eye out for their SUN Bucks cards and benefits over the coming weeks.