Many families that rely on school meals for their children will get additional food benefits to help with meals in the summer when schools are out.

The Missouri Department of Social Services announced it is launching its “SuN Bucks” program that will provide families with a one-time $120 benefit for each qualifying child.

Most eligible families will automatically receive the extra benefit that will be added to the summer EBT card. This applies for families who receive SNAP — or food stamps — benefits, and those who already qualify for free meals at school. Children in foster care, or who are experiencing homelessness also qualify.

Important note: Other families can apply for the benefits. The deadline for applications is August 31, 2024.

To apply for benefits, CLICK HERE.

The state provides an eligibility calculator to help determine if a family qualifies for the benefits. Go the eligibility calculator HERE.

The federal Food and Nutrition Service approved Missouri’s program July 19, and the state is cautioning that due to the late approval, there may be some technical challenges that could delay the benefits.

The program is vital to many families, said Kim Evans, Director of the Family Support Division.

"Families whose children depend on school breakfasts and lunches may struggle to access healthy meals during the summer," she said. "The SuN Bucks Program takes tangible steps to address childhood hunger and support our young ones to thrive and stay healthy throughout the summer."

For more information about SuNBucks, visit mydss.mo.gov/SuNBucks.