Michigan is committed to combating food insecurity among children, ensuring they have access to meals even during the summer break. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service has approved the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program, also known as SUN Bucks.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer emphasized the importance of this program in a recent news release, stating, “summer is here, but hunger isn’t going anywhere,” said Governor Whitmer. “I’m proud that we’re continuing our successful Summer EBT program so no child goes hungry between school years. I’m proud of the work we’ve done to tackle hunger, including our work to deliver free breakfast and lunch to all 1.4 million public school students, saving their parents nearly $900 a year in groceries and time every morning. While folks in DC keep trying to find ways to cut health care for Michiganders and food benefits for hungry families, here in Michigan we will keep taking action to make a real difference in their lives.”
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Benefits will come in the form of EBT cards that families can use to buy groceries. Families who already have a Bridge card will have a one-time payment of $120 per eligible child, the standard benefit amount set by the USDA for the 2025 program year, added to their existing card. Those who don’t already have a card will be sent a pre-loaded card in the mail. Eligible families who have received a letter about the program should have started receiving funds this month.
Benefits must be used within 122 days of issuance. Unused benefits will expire after this period and cannot be reinstated. SUN Bucks can be used at any store or farmer’s market that accepts EBT, including select online retailers.
You can find more information on the SUN Bucks program here.