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Summer Nutrition Programs for Kids

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Overview

Families in Virginia now have access to three unique programs that provide their kids with the nutrition they need in summer. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) SUN programs offer convenient and flexible options to help kids reach their full potential and support our commitment to providing families with access to freshly prepared, nutritious, locally sourced, and student inspired meals.

Programs

  • SUN Program Text Number

    SUN Meals:     served at schools, parks, community centers, and other eligible community locations. Meals are provided free of charge and with no proof of identification required. Meal locations often provide enrichment activities to support children's healthy growth and development. To find a summer meals location where you live, text "FOOD" or "COMIDA" to 304-304,  or visit the Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder. You may also reach out to your local school division.
  • SUN Meals To-Go: Children residing in rural communities may now have access to summer meals to-go through meal pick-up or home delivery programs.  
  • SUN Bucks: A new grocery benefit that offers families $120 per eligible child in the summer.

 Approved Meal Sites as of October 1, 2024 (Excel)

VDOE is committed to keeping school divisions and families well informed about the disbursement of funds. We encourage families to visit www.virginiasunbucks.com for the latest updates and refrain from contacting local school divisions as they are not responsible for the distribution of SUN Bucks to families.

Determining Rural

 Several tools are available to help determine if their localities are rural:

Are you a sponsor? Click here to view a host of resources such as application guidelines, planning guides, trainings and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my child is eligible for SUN Bucks?

Your child is eligible if they:

  • Summer EBT FAQs

    are school-aged and your household already participates in benefits like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), OR
  • attend a school that offers the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP), and your household income meets the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals.

How do I get SUN Meals for my family?

SUN Meals are available to any child aged 18 and under, no application or other information needed! Find meals at schools, parks, and other locations in your community using the USDA Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder .

Do I have to be a U.S. citizen to apply for SUN Bucks?

  • You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to apply and qualify for SUN Bucks.
  • Applying for or receiving SUN Bucks does not affect the immigration status of your children or family.
  • It will NOT affect your ability to:
    • remain in the United States
    • get a Green Card/Permanent Legal Resident Status
    • keep a Green Card/Permanent Legal Resident Status, or 
    • become a U.S. Citizen.

How do I get SUN-Meals to go for my family?

  • SUN Meals To-Go is available to any child aged 18 and under – no application needed! Check if SUN Meals To-Go is available and find pick-up locations where you live using the USDA Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder.