FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, December 22, 2025  
MEDIA CONTACT: Mason Mauro, (515) 745-2840, [email protected] 
  

Iowa is one of a few states to request permission from the USDA to align allowable SUN Bucks purchases with the state’s new Healthy SNAP guidelines which go into effect January 1, 2026.  SNAP and SUN Bucks participants will be able to use the benefits to purchase healthy foods like grains, fruits and vegetables, meat and dairy to supplement families’ nutritional needs. Iowa’s guidelines will exclude the purchase of taxable foods such as candy, soda and some store prepared foods. The new guidelines support the state’s goal to combat food insecurity and support child health and development during the summer months. 

SUN Bucks eligible families will receive $40 per child per month in grocery benefits over the summer to help ensure children have access to nutritious food while school is out. Benefits will be distributed via Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards and can be used at authorized retailers across Iowa. 

“Food assistance programs that are nutrition focused do more to help low-income Iowans by addressing both hunger and health,” Governor Reynolds said. “The SUN Bucks program has lacked a focus on nutrition, which was the reason we launched the Healthy Kids Iowa pilot program last summer. The response to the healthy, fresh foods that were available for families was overwhelmingly positive, but operating the program was challenging for some food banks and pantries. Now, with the USDA’s approval of our waiver to align the SUN Bucks program with Iowa's new Healthy SNAP guidelines, we can provide healthy food plus convenience for children and families.” 

“We are committed to supporting Iowa families and ensuring children have access to healthy meals year-round,” said Larry Johnson, Director of Iowa HHS. “Joining SUN Bucks allows us to expand our reach and provide families with flexibility in how they meet their nutritional needs.” 

Eligibility for SUN Bucks will be based on household income and participation in programs such as SNAP, FIP, or eligibility for free and reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs. Most eligible children will be automatically enrolled. Children who aren’t automatically enrolled in the program may still be eligible for SUN Bucks based on household income and other requirements. 

The SUN Bucks program builds upon the established USDA SUN Meals and SUN Meals To-Go Programs administered by the Iowa Department of Education, which provide children with healthy meals and snacks during the summer months. Last summer over 3 million nutritious meals and snacks were served at more than 500 convenient locations across the state. 

Additional enrollment and eligibility information will be available on the Iowa HHS website in early 2026.     

 

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