Essential Food Aid: Are Our Keiki Missing Out? Insights from Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Thousands of children in Hawaii from low-income families might miss out on free summer meals. This summer marks the second year that Hawaii is joining a federal program aimed to help these families. The program, called SUN Bucks or Summer EBT, provides preloaded debit cards to parents, making it easier to buy groceries when school meals aren’t available.

Eligible families can receive $177 for each child. Unfortunately, many may not know they qualify for this help. The deadline to apply is approaching—August 3—and families have 122 days to use the benefits once they receive them.

Governor Josh Green and other officials are encouraging families to take advantage of this initiative. First Lady Jaime Kanani Green emphasized the program’s core belief: “No child in Hawaii should ever go hungry.”

SUN Bucks started as a limited pilot program in 2011 but has since expanded. This year, it is expected to provide about $14 million to around 80,000 children in Hawaii. Most families are automatically enrolled because they’re already in programs like free or reduced-price meals or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Yamane from the state Department of Human Services points out that many eligible families haven’t applied yet. Income limits for eligibility vary by household size. For a single parent with one child, the limit is $44,992, with additional income limits for more household members.

To learn more or apply, families can visit sunbucks.dhs.hawaii.gov or call 888-975-7328.

The SUN Bucks program aims to combat food insecurity, which tends to increase during summer months when kids don’t have access to school meals. A USDA assessment found that participation in the program can reduce food insecurity among children by up to 20%.

Interestingly, the program was paused in 2020 due to challenges from the pandemic but was made permanent and expanded this year. According to the USDA, approximately 21 million children across multiple states and territories are expected to benefit, with funding nearing $2.5 billion.

Hawaii contributed $2 million this year to meet administrative costs for the program, ensuring it runs smoothly. Currently, Hawaii stands out by offering $177 per child compared to the $120 available in many mainland states.

Governor Green sums it up well: “These benefits are more than about food. They provide peace of mind, dignity, and support for families when they need it most.”

For families navigating tough times, these benefits could make a significant difference, ensuring that no child goes hungry this summer.

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Editors