Summer Nutrition Programs help kids get the food and nutrition they need. This summer, while school is out, SUN Programs offer access to healthy foods across Massachusetts. First, SUN Meals, also known as Summer Eats in Massachusetts, offers meals and snacks at set locations. Kids and teens must eat the meals on site, which are typically at schools, parks, or other communal places. There is typically an activity for the kids while they are there as well. Some rural locations will offer SUN Meals To-Go, which means eligible kids and teens can have the meals delivered or taken to-go. Check out this map of Summer Eats sites to find out what is offered in your area.
SUN Bucks, also called Summer EBT in Massachusetts, is new this summer. You will be automatically enrolled in Summer EBT if you currently get SNAP, DTA cash benefits, SSI, or certain types of MassHealth coverage. If you do not currently receive one of those benefits, you can apply for Summer EBT. If you are eligible, you will receive your benefits in one lump sum of $120 either on your already existing EBT card or on a new Summer EBT card if you do not currently have one.
Once the funds are on your card, you can spend them the same way you would SNAP—all the same limitations apply. The only exception is that you cannot use Summer EBT benefits to access the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP). For HIP, you must use SNAP. More information is available on this Summer EBT FAQ.
