Governor Wes Moore has announced the launch of the 2026 Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer program, known as Maryland SUN Bucks, to help families provide nutritious meals for children when school is not in session.
The program runs from June through August and builds on last year’s initiative, which distributed $75 million in benefits to more than 630,000 students — the largest such investment in state history. This year, the Moore-Miller administration is continuing its focus on ending childhood poverty and addressing the summer nutrition gap.
“No child should ever go hungry, and the success of SUN Bucks has brought that goal closer to reality, ensuring students have access to essential meals to thrive in the summertime,” Governor Moore said. “This program has been a critical lifeline for families to bring food to their table, as our administration invests in communities to combat food insecurity, improve community health outcomes, and fight to end child poverty.”
Acting Maryland Department of Human Services Secretary Stacy L. Rodgers emphasized the program’s role in supporting families. “We want to ensure that summer can be a season of fun and growth for our children. SUN Bucks helps reduce concerns about access to nutritious food and meals,” she said. “SUN Bucks bridges the critical hunger gap that opens when schools close for the summer — a gap that has widened due to federal changes in the SNAP program. Maryland continues to step up to combat childhood poverty and ensure our customers can afford to feed their families.”
The Department of Human Services is partnering with mRelief to assist families with SNAP enrollment. Additional partnerships with the Department of Juvenile Services’ Safe Summer Initiative and the Maryland State Department of Education aim to reach every eligible child.
Most families do not need to complete any paperwork. Students who receive SNAP or Temporary Cash Assistance will automatically receive an additional $40 per month per student from June to August, totaling $120 per student. Children qualifying through Medicaid, the Free and Reduced-Price School Meals program or out-of-home care are also automatically enrolled.
Families whose children are not automatically enrolled can apply online at dhs.maryland.gov/sunbucks.
The program addresses the well-documented summer nutrition gap when children lose access to school meals. Federal changes to SNAP have made the need for state action even more critical. SUN Bucks provides direct benefits on EBT cards, giving families flexibility to purchase food that meets their children’s needs.
Southern Maryland families in Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties stand to benefit from the program, particularly those with children in public schools or receiving other assistance. The automatic enrollment process minimizes barriers for eligible households.
The Moore-Miller administration has made combating child poverty a priority. SUN Bucks is one component of broader efforts to support families and improve health outcomes through access to nutritious food.
Last year’s program demonstrated strong demand and effective delivery. This year’s expansion and continued partnerships aim to ensure even greater reach.
For families not automatically enrolled, the online application is designed to be user-friendly. Checking eligibility and applying takes little time and can make a significant difference during the summer months.
The program’s success depends on awareness and participation. Eligible families are encouraged to verify their status and ensure benefits are received.
SUN Bucks represents Maryland’s commitment to supporting children year-round. By bridging the summer gap, the program helps students return to school in the fall ready to learn.
