The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is a lifeline for families in need. Food Stamps benefits offer a vital resource for families with low incomes, ensuring they have access to nutritious food essential to be healthy. Back in April 2023, over 22 million households in the USA were beneficiaries of the monthly SNAP benefits. Although this month some get additional benefits, there are certain states where residents will not be eligible to receive the Summer EBT benefits, commonly referred to as SUN Bucks. Let’s explore more about the states that won’t be participating in this summer payment.
The Summer EBT program, also known as SUN Bucks, was designed to provide food benefits to eligible children during the summer months. This initiative aims to combat child hunger by offering support when children lose access to free or reduced-price school meals. Each qualifying child receives a total of $120 in food benefits, ensuring they have the nutrition they need throughout the summer.
Advantages of SUN Bucks for SNAP recipients
- Alleviates child hunger during the summer months
- Provides essential nutrition to children who rely on school meals
- Supports families with limited incomes
Despite the importance of the Summer EBT program, not all states will be participating in the Summer EBT benefits. To find out which states are included and to get more detailed information about this program, you can visit the official USDA website: https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sunbucks
Understanding the scope and impact of SNAP and Summer EBT benefits is crucial for ensuring that families in need receive the support they deserve. By staying informed, you can better navigate the resources available and advocate for the programs that matter most.
SUN Bucks is a summer food benefit that allows families to spend $120 on food for each eligible school-age child. Notably, several states will not participate in the 2024 summer EBT program. This additional benefit is intended to provide a vital resource for low-income households by focusing on providing food assistance to eligible children. Families need to be aware and take advantage of the resources available to them, as we continue to receive updates on participating locations and eligibility requirements.
States Not Participating in SUN Bucks 2024
Full list of States not sending SUN Bucks: Idaho, Wyoming, South Dakota, Iowa, Utah, Texas, Alaska, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida
The SUN Bucks program aims to alleviate food insecurity during the summer months, but it’s important to note that not all states will be part of the 2024 summer EBT program. This means some families might not receive this additional $120 per eligible school-age child. Despite this, families should still stay informed about the resources available to them and monitor updates regarding their SUN Bucks eligibility.
Alternative SUN Program Options
To ensure your child’s potential is maximized, the Food and Nutrition Service recommends exploring various SUN Program options. One excellent choice is enrolling your children in SUN Meals. Accessible at parks and schools, SUN Meals provides convenient and nutritious food options. For families residing in rural areas, searching for SUN Meals To-Go can be a practical solution.
Regular SNAP Benefits
It’s crucial to highlight that while some states will not deliver the SUN Bucks, they will still continue to provide the regular monthly SNAP benefit payment. This ongoing support remains a critical resource for many low-income households, ensuring they have access to essential food supplies.
The following states will not be participating in the SUN Bucks Program for SNAP, WIC, TANF, or FDPIR users: Idaho, Wyoming, South Dakota, Iowa, Utah, Texas, Alaska, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida. However, several states will soon be able to use Summer EBT even if they are not currently part of the SUN Bucks program this summer. These states include Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
SNAP-eligible stores
When applicants qualify for SNAP benefit payments, they receive an EBT card. This card allows them to purchase essential food items from authorized stores, farmers’ markets, and other locations. Below is a list of places where SNAP food stamps can be used:
- ALDI
- Amazon
- BJs Wholesale Club
- Earth Fare
- Farmer’s markets
- Freshfields Farm
- Greer’s Cash Saver
- Hitchcock’s Markets
- JC’s Market and Food Kitchen
- Milam’s Markets
- Mt. Plymouth Grocery
- Publix
- Sam’s Club
- Scan and Go
- Sprouts Farmers Market
- Target
- Trader Joe’s
- Walmart
- Whole Foods
SNAP Benefit Payment Amounts
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) determines benefits based on family size. If you apply alone, you may be eligible for up to $291. If you apply with a household of eight, you may be eligible for the full $1,751 monthly SNAP benefit payment. Below are the approved payment amounts based on the number of people in each family:
- 1 person: $291
- 2 people: $535
- 3 people: $766
- 4 people: $973
- 5 people: $1,155
- 6 people: $1,386
- 7 people: $1,532
- 8 people: $1,751