Summer 2026 Food Help for Families: Free Meals and Other Resources

When school is out for summer, many children lose access to the free or reduced-price meals they depend on during the school year. This can put extra strain on family budgets.

SUN Bucks (also known as Summer EBT) was created to help. This program gives families $120 per child to spend on groceries during summer months. However, not every state offers this program.

States Without SUN Bucks in 2026

The following states are not participating in the SUN Bucks program:

• Alaska
• Florida
• Georgia
• Idaho
• Indiana
• Mississippi
• Oklahoma
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah

If you live in one of these states, don't worry—there are other ways to get food help.

 

Free Summer Meals for Kids (SUN Meals Program)

The SUN Meals program offers free breakfast, lunch, and snacks to any child age 18 or younger. This program runs in all 50 states, including those without SUN Bucks.

Where to Find Free Meals

Meals are served at many community locations, including:

• Schools
• Parks
• Libraries
• Churches
• Community centers

How It Works

• No sign-up required
• No ID needed
• No proof of income required

Kids simply show up and receive a free meal.

Find a Meal Site Near You

• Text "FOOD" or "COMIDA" to 304-304
• Call the USDA Hotline: 1-866-348-6479

Tip: Meal sites have specific hours that may change throughout summer. Call ahead to confirm times before you go.

Rural Areas

If you live in a rural area, look for SUN Meals To-Go. This option lets families pick up meals or have them delivered. Ask your local meal site for details.

 

Double Up Food Bucks: Stretch Your SNAP Benefits

If your family receives SNAP benefits (food stamps), the Double Up Food Bucks program can help you get more fresh produce.

How It Works

When you buy fruits and vegetables with your EBT card at participating stores or farmers markets, the program matches what you spend dollar-for-dollar, up to a daily limit.

• No separate application needed
• If you have an active SNAP EBT card, you're automatically eligible

States With Double Up Food Bucks

This year-round program is available in 26 states:

Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts (Boston area), Michigan, Minnesota (limited locations), Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina (Western NC), North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah

Similar Programs in Other States

Many states have their own programs that work the same way:

• California: Market Match
• Florida: Fresh Access Bucks
• Ohio: Produce Perks
• Maine: Farm Fresh Rewards

 

Food Banks and Pantries

Local food banks and pantries are great options if you need groceries to prepare at home.

What They Offer

• Pre-packaged food boxes
• Fresh and canned food for pickup
• Mobile pantries that bring food to your neighborhood
• Some school pantries stay open during summer

What You Need

Most food banks don't require ID or proof of income. Some may ask for a utility bill or basic household information. Call ahead to find out what's needed.

Find a Food Bank

• Visit FeedingAmerica.org
• Call 211 to connect with local resources

 

WIC: Help for Young Children and Pregnant Women

The WIC program (Women, Infants, and Children) provides monthly benefits for nutritious foods. This program is available year-round and is not affected by your state's SUN Bucks participation.

Who Qualifies

• Children under age 5
• Pregnant women
• Women who recently gave birth

Foods Covered

• Fruits and vegetables
• Milk
• Eggs
• Whole grains
• Baby food

Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP)

WIC participants can also get extra benefits for fresh produce at farmers markets and roadside stands through the FMNP. Contact your local WIC office to learn more.

Apply for WIC

• Visit fns.usda.gov/wic
• Contact your local WIC office

 

Tips for Overcoming Common Barriers

Getting to meal sites or food programs can be challenging. Here are some practical solutions:

Transportation or Distance Issues

• Ask about SUN Meals To-Go for grab-and-go or delivery options
• Look for mobile food pantries that come to your neighborhood
• Ask about transportation support—some cities offer free or discounted bus passes for low-income residents

Limited Time

• Call ahead to confirm meal times and avoid wasted trips
• Check places you already visit, like schools, libraries, parks, and community centers

Filling the Gaps

• Combine resources—if you can't visit a meal site daily, use food banks for groceries at home
• Call 211 for help finding programs and resources in your area

 

Quick Reference

Resource	Who It Helps	How to Access
SUN Meals	Any child 18 or under	Text "FOOD" to 304-304
Double Up Food Bucks	SNAP recipients	Use EBT at participating locations
Food Banks	Anyone in need	Visit FeedingAmerica.org or call 211
WIC	Children under 5, pregnant/postpartum women	Visit fns.usda.gov/wic

 

Summer can be tough on family budgets, but help is available. Whether you need free meals for your kids, want to stretch your grocery dollars, or need to stock your pantry, these programs can make a difference.

-

Subscribe to secure your food stamps and learn more about this government benefit.