When School Ends, So Does Free Lunch

For millions of American families, the school year means more than education — it means two free or reduced-price meals a day for kids who qualify. When summer hits, that safety net disappears overnight. For households already running tight on groceries, the gap can be significant.

The good news: there are programs specifically designed for this moment. If you have children in your household or you’re managing a tight food budget this summer, here’s what you should know.

Summer EBT (SUN Bucks)

One of the most important programs to know about is Summer EBT, now called SUN Bucks in many states. This federally funded program provides a grocery benefit — typically around $40 per eligible child per month — to families who qualify based on income or participation in other assistance programs like SNAP or Medicaid.

States administer SUN Bucks differently. Some automatically enroll children who are already in the free and reduced lunch program. Others require a separate application. Check your state’s department of education or social services website to find out how enrollment works in your area. For more information about SUN Bucks, visit: https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sunbucks

SNAP — Summer Is a Good Time to Apply or Recertify

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly grocery benefits to qualifying low-income households. If you’re not currently enrolled and your household income has changed recently, now is a good time to apply — summer often brings reduced hours and seasonal income shifts that can affect eligibility.

If you’re already enrolled, check your recertification date. Missing a recertification window can interrupt your benefits, so staying on top of it matters. To learn more about SNAP benefits or apply, visit: https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/361

Summer Meal Sites

For families who want free meals directly, the USDA Summer Nutrition Programs fund free meal sites at schools, community centers, parks, and libraries across the country. These are open to all children 18 and under — no application required. You can find a site near you through the USDA’s summer meal finder at https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder.

Other Food Assistance Resources

Beyond federal programs, local food banks and community pantries often ramp up summer distributions specifically for families losing school meal access. Many operate on a walk-in basis with no income verification required. To find a local food bank, visit https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) also provides grocery benefits for pregnant women and children under 5 who meet income requirements — if you haven’t applied, it’s worth checking your eligibility. Learn more or apply at https://www.fna.usda.gov/wic.

Don’t Wait to Apply

Summer food programs operate on limited funding cycles, and some have enrollment windows that open and close during the season. The earlier you apply or check your eligibility, the better your chances of securing benefits before local allocations run out.

Log in to your member portal to find current food assistance resources matched to your household and get started today.