Over a million children in North Carolina have something to smile about after the state’s Department of Health and Human Services distributed more than $129 million in food assistance over the summer. This financial aid was part of the SUN Bucks program, a new initiative aimed at children who otherwise might go without adequate nutrition when school is out. The SUN Bucks program came to life thanks to a collaboration between the USDA and local state departments, providing families with $120 per child to buy groceries, according to a statement from
Governor Roy Cooper’s office
.
Food insecurity is a persistent issue in North Carolina, where, one in 5 children live in households that struggle with access to enough food. “Too many children face food insecurity in North Carolina, particularly children who rely on school meals during the academic year,” said Governor Roy Cooper. The SUN Bucks program stepped in to fill this summer’s nutritional void, with the NC Secretary of Health and Human Services Kody H. Kinsley indicating, “Healthy food is key to overall health and well-being.” The initiative didn’t just offer sustenance; it contributed to the ongoing growth and development of children across the state, as Kinsley told the
Governor’s office
.
Success of the SUN Bucks program was made possible by the joint efforts of the USDA, NCDHHS, and the NC Department of Public Instruction, as well as by financial backing from various philanthropic organizations. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation, Smithfield Foods, The Leon Levine Foundation, Dogwood Health Trust, Cone Health Foundation, and Brighthouse Financial all provided necessary funds to cover administrative costs and make the program a reality for those in need.
Looking to the future, state officials are already gearing up for another SUN Bucks summer in 2025. They are working to secure sustainable funding to continue the program, which not only supports the health of children but also pours resources into the local economy, they are seeking financial support from the legislature and partners to administer the program in 2025 and beyond, as detailed by the press release from the
Governor’s office
.
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