SUN Bucks program available for free/reduced-eligible students

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides additional benefits in the summer for students who qualify for educational benefits. This income-based food support program provides families $120 per eligible school-aged child to buy groceries when school is out for the summer. 

Families who are not yet eligible can still apply for the benefits through Aug. 31, 2026. Visit ahschools.us/freereduced to complete an online application.

Eligibility: School-aged children between the ages of 7-18 whose households participate in specific public assistance programs (SNAP, Medicaid) or children who have an approved Application for Educational Benefits to receive free and reduced-price benefits through the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program.

Benefits: Eligible children get $120 on a SUN Bucks EBT card for the summer to spend on approved groceries.

What do parents need to do?

1. Ensure the school has the correct guardian information and mailing address, if there has been a recent change. Contact the secretary at your child’s school, who can update the guardian information and address.
2. If you have any questions about your child’s eligibility for the program, contact the district Child Nutrition Department at 763-506-1240.
3. If you have other questions about the program, such as when cards will be sent, please contact the SUN Bucks Hotline at 651-431-4608 (8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) or visit the website at https://sebthelp.state.mn.us/.

Summer meals: Anoka-Hennepin is also participating in the Summer Food Service Program, providing meals to all children 18 and under at no cost. Learn more about the Summer Food Service Program.