RALEIGH, NC – North Carolina families who may qualify for summer grocery assistance are being encouraged to apply for SUN Bucks benefits as the first round of payments begins reaching eligible households across the state.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) announced that more than 1 million children will receive SUN Bucks benefits this summer, with approximately $121 million being distributed during the first issuance cycle. The program provides a one-time payment of $120 per eligible child to help families purchase nutritious food while school is out of session.
While many families were automatically enrolled based on participation in Food and Nutrition Services and other qualifying programs, state officials stress that families who were not automatically enrolled may still be eligible and should apply as soon as possible.
Families who believe they may qualify can visit the SUN Bucks application page online and complete an application. An interactive eligibility quiz is also available to help determine whether a child qualifies for the benefit.
The SUN Bucks benefit can be used at retailers and farmers markets that accept Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, including most major grocery stores across North Carolina.
Benefits for automatically enrolled families began becoming available on June 1. Eligible households will receive a new 2026 SUN Bucks card preloaded with the full $120 benefit for each qualifying child. Most cards are expected to arrive by June 15, although delivery could take up to eight weeks.
Governor Josh Stein highlighted the importance of the program in addressing summer hunger among children.
“Too many children are vulnerable to hunger in the summertime because they lose access to the free and reduced-price meals they depend on during the school year,” Stein said. “SUN Bucks helps families keep food on the table during the summer, supporting children’s health, development, and readiness to return to school in the fall.”
According to NCDHHS, approximately one in six North Carolina children lives in a household without consistent access to food. SUN Bucks is part of the broader Summer Nutrition Programs for Kids initiative designed to help bridge that gap when school cafeterias are closed.
Families seeking additional information about eligibility or the application process can visit the SUN Bucks website or contact the NC SUN Bucks Call Center at 1-866-719-0141 and select option two to speak with a representative.
State leaders are also advocating for recurring funding to continue the program in future years, citing its impact on reducing childhood hunger and supporting family well-being throughout the summer months.
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