By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has unveiled a new suite of initiatives, named SUN Programs, aimed at bolstering summer nutrition for America’s youth. This initiative aligns with the Administration's efforts to combat hunger and promote healthy eating among children when school meals are unavailable.
SUN Programs encompass several components including SUN Bucks, SUN Meals, and SUN Meals To-Go, each designed to address the unique needs of families during the summer months.
SUN Bucks is an innovative program that provides a grocery benefit of $120 per child to purchase food items that adhere to their dietary preferences and cultural traditions. This benefit is expected to assist about 21 million children this summer alone.
SUN Meals continues to offer nutritious meals at various community locations like schools and parks. This program, established in 1968, pairs meals with enrichment activities to foster both physical and intellectual growth.
Meanwhile, the newly introduced SUN Meals To-Go facilitates access to meals in rural areas, ensuring children in these regions do not miss out on crucial nutrition.
These efforts are a part of a larger strategy to eradicate hunger and reduce diet-related diseases by 2030, a goal set by the current administration. By expanding access to nutritious food options, the USDA aims to create healthier futures for children across the nation.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National