Administrative initiative boosts child nutrition with SUN programs

May 23, 2024

By Farms.com

The Administration has unveiled the "SUN Programs" through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). These programs aim to provide vital nutrition support for children during the summer months when access to school meals is limited.

The cornerstone of the SUN Programs is SUN Bucks, a new initiative that provides grocery benefits to eligible school-aged children. This benefit empowers families to stretch their summer grocery budget and purchase foods that cater to their family's needs and preferences. Research indicates that such benefits can have a significant impact on reducing child hunger and improving eating patterns.

Alongside SUN Bucks, the SUN Programs include SUN Meals and SUN Meals To-Go. SUN Meals are available at various community locations, offering nutritious meals and enrichment activities to support children's healthy development. Meanwhile, SUN Meals To-Go provide convenient pick-up and delivery options in rural areas where access to traditional meal sites may be limited.

These initiatives underscore the Administration's commitment to addressing hunger and promoting healthy eating habits among children. By providing essential nutrition support through SUN Programs, the USDA aims to ensure that millions of children across the country have access to nutritious food during the summer months.

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