Hunger-fighting organizations and advocates in Iowa are urging Governor Kim Reynolds to submit a notice of intent to the U.S. Department of Agriculture to operate the Summer EBT program in 2025. This program, known as SUN Bucks, provides eligible families with $120 per child to purchase groceries during the summer months. Supporters argue that the program helps address child hunger by providing additional support to families in need.
Patty Sneddon-Kisting, the executive director of the Urbandale Food Pantry, highlighted the importance of programs like Summer EBT in addressing food insecurity, especially during the summer months. In 2024, the pantry served nearly 8,000 families, demonstrating the need for continued support for families facing hunger.
A coalition of 153 organizations and groups in Iowa have signed a letter calling on Governor Reynolds to participate in the Summer EBT program next summer. They argue that the program has a positive impact on children’s nutrition, increasing consumption of fresh produce, fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods.
Governor Reynolds had previously submitted a waiver to provide food boxes directly to families instead of participating in the Summer EBT program, but the USDA denied the request. Advocates are urging the governor to reconsider and join the Summer EBT program to provide critical support to children and families in need. The deadline for states to submit a notice of intent is January 1, and advocates are hoping for the governor’s support to address child hunger across the state.
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