22-05-2025
New Summer EBT Benefits coming to families with eligible school children
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WHNT) — The Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) in partnership with the Alabama State Department of Education is providing a way for school children to remain fed this summer.
Officials plan to distribute Alabama SUN Bucks also known as 'Summer EBT' benefits to eligible children this summer, as part of a new federal program.
Alabama SUN Bucks will provide a one-time issuance of $120 per school-aged child for grocery benefits for the summer to low-income families.
According to officials, Alabama SUN Bucks will be automatically issued to school-aged children who have been approved by application or direct certification and attending a school that offers the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs.
Huntsville City Schools to offer free meals to children during summer learning activities
Children that are directly certified through the ALSDE in programs such as SNAP, TANF or Medicaid will be automatically eligible for Alabama SUN Bucks.
If children aren't enrolled automatically, they may still apply for Alabama SUN Bucks by clicking here. Students receiving free meals through the Community Eligibility Provision will not automatically qualify; however, students may still be eligible for the benefits based on the household's income.
'The summer break can be challenging for families when children are at home and spending increases because children and youth are not in school and receiving benefits,' said Alabama DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner. 'This additional money will help families across the state make it through summer break while also encouraging healthy and nutritious eating.
Alabama SUN Bucks are accepted at grocery stores, farmers' markets, convenience stores, and online retailers. Alabama SUN Bucks can buy most SNAP-eligible foods, except hot and prepared foods.
Alabama SUN Bucks benefits will start being sent in June 2025. Families that need to apply can do so anytime. Applications will be reviewed in May 2025. A letter about your child's eligibility will be sent to you if you applied or are automatically eligible.
An Alabama SUN Bucks card will be issued for students who qualify for the program.
Alabama SUN Bucks customer service representatives are available to answer Summer EBT questions Monday-Friday. Please contact the representatives by phone at 1-800-443-3536.
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