SUN Bucks: California’s New Financial Aid for Families with Children

SUN Bucks: California's New Financial Aid for Families with Children - ItsSoSanDiego

Discover How to Get SUN Bucks EBT Cards and Where to Spend Them for Nutritious Food

The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has launched an innovative new initiative called SUN Bucks, designed to provide much-needed financial assistance to families with children. With approximately 5 million children expected to be eligible for this program, based on data collected from schools and social services, SUN Bucks is set to make a significant positive impact on families throughout the state.

How to Get SUN Bucks

SUN Bucks will be distributed through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, ensuring a streamlined and efficient process. Each eligible child will receive an EBT card preloaded with $120. The distribution will take place between June and August, with families receiving their cards in alphabetical order based on their last names.

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Eligibility Criteria:

  • Children identified through school and social services data.
  • Families receiving other forms of social assistance may also qualify.

CDSS has worked diligently to identify eligible children through comprehensive data collection from schools and social services, ensuring that those who need assistance the most are included in this program.

Where to Spend SUN Bucks

SUN Bucks are intended to help families purchase nutritious food items, promoting healthier eating habits for children. The funds loaded onto the EBT cards can be spent at a variety of locations, providing flexibility and convenience for families.

Approved Spending Locations:

  • Most grocery stores: Families can shop at their local grocery stores to purchase fresh produce, dairy, and other nutritious food items.
  • Farmers’ markets: Supporting local farmers while providing fresh, healthy options.
  • Online grocery retailers such as Amazon and Walmart: For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping.
  • Other participating stores: Additional retailers that accept EBT cards will also be part of the program.

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Prohibited Purchases:

To ensure that the funds are used exclusively for nutritious food items, certain purchases are not allowed with SUN Bucks:

  • Hot foods
  • Pet food
  • Cleaning or household supplies
  • Hygiene products
  • Medicines

By restricting these purchases, the CDSS aims to enhance the well-being of children across the state by promoting access to healthy food.

Important Usage Information

Families need to be aware of the usage timeline for SUN Bucks. The funds must be used within 122 days from the date they are loaded onto the EBT cards. Any unused funds will expire after this period and cannot be reissued, so it is crucial for families to utilize the assistance in a timely manner.


SUN Bucks represents a significant effort by the CDSS to support families and improve the nutritional health of children in California. By providing financial assistance for food, the initiative aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens families face, ensuring that children have access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.

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Author: itssosandiego

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