New summer EBT benefits coming to families with eligible school children

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) in partnership with the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) plans to distribute Alabama SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) benefits to eligible children this summer, as part of a new federal program. Alabama SUN Bucks will provide a one-time issuance of $120 per school-aged child for grocery benefits for the summer to low-income families.

Alabama SUN Bucks will be automatically issued to school-aged children who have been approved by application or direct certification and attending a school that offers the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs. Children that are directly certified through the ALSDE in programs such as SNAP, TANF or Medicaid will be automatically eligible for Alabama SUN Bucks.

If not automatically enrolled, each student may apply for Alabama SUN Bucks. Students receiving free meals through the Community Eligibility Provision will not automatically qualify; however, students may still be eligible for the benefits based on the household’s income. Households should visit Alabama SUN Bucks to apply or receive additional information.

“The summer break can be challenging for families when children are at home and spending increases because children and youth are not in school and receiving benefits,” said Alabama DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner. “This additional money will help families across the state make it through summer break while also encouraging healthy and nutritious eating. 

An Alabama SUN Bucks card will be issued for students who qualify for the program.

Alabama SUN Bucks customer service representatives are available to answer Summer EBT questions by phone at 1-800-443-3536 or email at support@alabama-sunbucks.com from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday.