As we welcome the summer of 2024, a groundbreaking initiative is set to enrich the lives of families across North Carolina. The SUN Bucks program, spearheaded by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), promises to alleviate the financial burden of grocery shopping for qualifying families with school-aged children. This initiative is a step towards eradicating food insecurity, and a testament to the power of community support in ensuring every child has access to nutritious food.
Understanding SUN Bucks: A New Horizon in Food Assistance
SUN Bucks is designed to support families during the summer months, a period when children may not have access to the free or reduced-price meals provided during the school year. Eligible families will receive a one-time payment of $120 per child, which can be used at grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and selected online retailers to purchase healthy foods.
Eligibility for SUN Bucks is straightforward. Some families will be automatically enrolled in the program through existing benefit programs, while others may need to apply directly. Applications open in May 2024, and families are encouraged to visit the NCDHHS website for more information and to apply.
Breastfeed Durham: Advocating for First Food Equity
At Breastfeed Durham, our mission aligns closely with the goals of the SUN Bucks program. We believe in the importance of first food equity and the critical role it plays in the health and development of infants and young children. Our commitment extends beyond breastfeeding support to encompass the food security of parents and siblings, recognizing that a healthy start in life is foundational to long-term health and well-being.
The introduction of SUN Bucks represents a significant step towards ensuring that all families, regardless of their economic status, have access to the nutritious food necessary for their children’s growth and development. This program not only addresses the immediate need for food assistance but also contributes to the broader goal of building a healthier, more resilient community.
A Call to Action: Supporting Our Community’s Future
This is a powerful reminder of the collective effort required to combat food insecurity and support the well-being of our community’s most vulnerable members. As the program rolls out, we encourage all eligible families to participate and take advantage of this valuable resource. Breastfeed Durham continues to advocate for policies and programs that support food security and equitable access to nutritious foods. We believe that by working together, we can create a future where no child goes hungry, and every family has the support they need to thrive.
As we look forward to the launch of the SUN Bucks program, let us also renew our commitment to supporting each other and building a community where every child has the opportunity to grow up healthy and strong. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of North Carolina’s families, today and for generations to come.
For more information on the SUN Bucks program and how you can apply, please visit www.ncdhhs.gov/sunbucks. Together, let’s nurture a healthier, more equitable community for all.