JACKSON, Wyo. — A supplemental grocery benefit program is coming to Wyoming for the first time this summer, and it is expected to dole out $3.8 million to families with school-aged children who qualify for reduced-price school lunches.
SUN Bucks is a nationwide, federal program that helps cover the gap during summertime, when children lose access to free or reduced-price meals at school. According to a press release from Hole Food Rescue (HFR), the summer financial benefits can decrease the number of children experiencing very low food security by 33%. In Teton County, HFR estimates that 576 children will benefit from the program.
Governor Mark Gordon signed an executive order in April directing the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) to implement a scaled-back version of the program. Now, Wyoming families who are eligible will receive $120 per child on an electronic benefit card, per DFS. This card can then be used to purchase groceries. The number of children in Wyoming that qualify for this summer food program ranges from 30,000 to 37,000.
“We’re proud to see years of advocacy culminate in a meaningful program for children across the state,” HFR Executive Director Margaret Thompson said via press release. “We believe every child should have access to enough food throughout the entire year, and SUN Bucks is a proven tool to reduce hunger and increase food security for Wyoming children.”
Most eligible children will be automatically enrolled in SUN Bucks, including those who receive free or reduced-price meals at school. Those families will receive an email from DFS asking them to confirm or update their mailing address. SUN Bucks cards will be mailed in early July. Those who qualify but are not automatically enrolled can still receive the full $120 benefit if they apply before Aug. 31. Funds on the cards are set to expire about three months after being mailed. Families seeking information about eligibility, enrollment and benefits can visit the DFS website to learn more.
“This is an essential program to give a little boost for children in our state who may not otherwise have access to healthy food,” Gordon said in a statement. “We want our children to thrive, because when our children are successful, so too are our communities.”
