Matt Moore Director of Food Service
Email Matt Moore
Food Service
Summer Grocery Benefits for Kids
SUN Bucks is the new name for the Summer EBT grocery benefit. Eligible families will receive $120 per child to purchase groceries over the summer.
Once you’re enrolled, SUN Bucks will be automatically added to your SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) account or you will be issued a separate electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card. Note: Families can receive SUN Bucks on top of other nutrition benefits like SNAP and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children.)
Note: Funds will expire 122 days after issuance – so families are encouraged to use them sooner rather than later.
What can be purchased with SUN Bucks?
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Non-alcoholic drinks
Where can SUN Bucks be used?
In-Store
SUN Bucks can be used at the same stores that accept SNAP or WIC. Use the SNAP Retailer Locator to find grocery stores, farmers markets, and convenience stores near you.
Online
SUN Bucks can now be used at online retailers like Amazon, Costco, and Thrive Market. Click ‘Michigan’ on the Online Purchasing Pilot Map for a full list of participating retailers.
Who is Eligible?
Families will be automatically enrolled in SUN Bucks if they are already enrolled in SNAP, TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), or FDPIR (Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations) benefits or meet the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals. Note: Families not automatically enrolled should apply for SUN Bucks directly.
Deadline(s): Apply by April 15, 2025, to be eligible for the first issuance of benefits in May. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until August 31, 2025.
2024-2025 Free Lunch Letter
Food Service Forms & Resources
Meet Up and Eat Up Summer Food Program
Meet Up and Eat Up's summer meals are for all children in the community! While the Hastings Area School System does not offer a summer food program, there are several local organizations that participate in Meet Up and Eat Up. Click on the graphic below to find the location nearest you. You can also text "FOOD" or "COMIDA" to 304-304 to find free meals in your neighborhood.
