Deadline Approaches for Pennsylvania’s Summer Food Benefits Program
Eligible families in Pennsylvania have until August 31 to apply for the SUN Bucks program, which provides critical summer food benefits for children from low-income households. The federally funded initiative facilitates access to nutritious food during the summer months, when many children who typically receive free or reduced-price meals at school may face food insecurity.
Under the SUN Bucks program, families can receive a one-time payment of per month for each eligible child, amounting to a maximum of 0 over the summer. The benefits can be used akin to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, allowing families to purchase groceries to meet their children’s dietary needs during the school break.
For the second consecutive year, Pennsylvania has opted to participate in this important federal program, continuing its commitment to assist low-income families. While many eligible children will be automatically enrolled based on their participation in SNAP, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or Medicaid, some households may require a formal application to be considered. The approaching deadline means families must act quickly to ensure they are able to apply.
Families with children who are not automatically eligible – for example, those attending schools where all students receive free meals – will need to submit an application. This can be done in person at local County Assistance Offices, by mail, or online. The application portal can be accessed through the dedicated website at lanc.news/SUNapply.
For further assistance, families can contact their local County Assistance Office. In Lancaster County, the office is located at 832 Manor St., Lancaster, PA. It operates on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can be reached by telephone at 717-299-7411.
Most benefits are set to be issued starting in late July, with all distributions completed by the end of September. This timeline is crucial, as families prepare to navigate the financial challenges that arise during the summer when school meals are unavailable.
Parents and guardians can assess their eligibility status and gather more information about the application process by visiting the program’s website. Programs like SUN Bucks are essential in ensuring children receive proper nutrition year-round, regardless of economic circumstances, thus promoting better health outcomes and academic performance.
