What is Summer EBT-SUN Bucks?

Authorized by a bipartisan Congress in 2023, SUN Bucks (officially known as Summer-EBT) is a permanent program designed to ensure that school-age children in low-income families stay well-fed and healthy during the summer months.

Think of it as a bridge for the "summer hunger gap"—helping families keep the pantry full when school meals aren't available.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees the program, and the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) coordinates the benefit issuance in Pennsylvania. The Warren County School District does not manage SUN Buck or issue funds. If you need assistance, visit the PA Department of Human Services Summer EBT website (opens in new tab) or call 1-877-395-8930.

Who is Eligible?

Families should only submit a Summer EBT/SUN Bucks application if their child attended an NSLP/SBP-participating school in the 2025-2026 school year and was not found automatically eligible for Summer EBT-SUN Bucks. The PA DHS Eligibility Navigator (opens in new tab) can help families determine their child's eligibility.

Students who are homeschooled or are taught virtually for 100% of the school year are ineligible for Summer EBT/SUN Bucks. The only exception is if the child also attends a school building regularly that offers them NSLP/SBP school meals. Head Start or other pre-K students who attend a program that participates in NSLP and/or SBP will qualify, as Head Start students are categorically eligible for free school meals.

If an application is necessary, they may be found on the Summer EBT-SUN Bucks website after July 1st. Applications must be filed before August 31st.

What are the Benefits?

Each household will receive $120 per eligible child (the equivalent of $40 per summer month). Benefits will be applied to the family’s state EBT card, a previously issued SUN Bucks card, or a new SUN Bucks card, depending on the family. DHS will begin issuing the benefits in late May 2026, starting with children who are automatically eligible. All other recipients should begin receiving benefits beginning in July 2026.

SUN Bucks benefits expire after four (4) months after the date of issuance if unused.