The SUN Bucks Program is a helpful initiative that allows EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) cardholders to access extra funds to buy fresh food from farmers’ markets and other local food sources. This program is expanding in 2025, and more states are now taking part. If you’re using EBT benefits and want to shop for fresh produce at participating markets next summer, here’s what you need to know about the new states joining the program.
What is the SUN Bucks Program?
The SUN Bucks Program was created to make healthy, locally-grown food more accessible to people who rely on EBT benefits for their groceries. EBT cards, which are used for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, can now be used at farmers’ markets that accept this program. The goal is to support healthy eating and connect people with fresh food.
Through the SUN Bucks Program, EBT cardholders get additional benefits when they buy food at participating farmers’ markets. These extra funds, known as “SUN Bucks,” can be used to buy fresh vegetables, fruits, and other locally-produced foods. The program also helps small farmers by increasing the number of people who shop at their markets.
New States Joining the SUN Bucks Program in 2025
For 2025, several new states have decided to join the SUN Bucks Program. If you’re living in one of these states, you’ll be able to use your EBT card at even more farmers’ markets next summer! Some of the states that will participate in the program starting in 2025 include:
- California
- Oregon
- New York
- Michigan
- Minnesota
These states have seen the benefits of the SUN Bucks Program and want to make fresh, local food more accessible to people who need it.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| What is the SUN Bucks Program? | A program that helps EBT cardholders get extra funds to buy fresh, locally-grown food at participating farmers’ markets. |
| States Joining in 2025 | – California – Oregon – New York – Michigan – Minnesota |
| How to Use EBT with SUN Bucks | Visit a participating farmers’ market, use your EBT card, and receive additional SUN Bucks to spend on fresh produce. |
| Eligible Products | Fresh fruits, vegetables, and some other locally-grown foods. SUN Bucks cannot be used for processed or non-food items. |
| Where to Find Participating Markets | Look for markets with signs or ask directly if they accept EBT and offer the SUN Bucks Program. |
| Why is the Program Important? | Makes healthy food more affordable and accessible for families while supporting local farmers. |
| Restrictions on SUN Bucks | SUN Bucks can only be used at participating farmers’ markets and for eligible fresh food products. |
| Benefit for 2025 | More states participating, giving EBT cardholders more access to fresh food and supporting local agriculture. |
| Program’s Impact | Aims to reduce food insecurity, improve community health, and strengthen local economies by increasing market visits. |
How to Use Your EBT Card with SUN Bucks
Using your EBT card with the SUN Bucks Program is simple. All you need to do is visit a participating farmers’ market. When you shop there, ask if they accept EBT and if they offer the SUN Bucks Program. If the market is part of the program, you can use your EBT card to pay for your purchases and get extra SUN Bucks to spend on fresh food.
Keep in mind that each market may have different rules about how the SUN Bucks are used. Some may offer a set amount of extra money, while others might have different amounts depending on the day or season. Be sure to ask the market staff how it works before you shop!
Why the SUN Bucks Program Matters
The SUN Bucks Program is important because it helps families eat healthier by making fresh produce more affordable. It also supports local farmers, which is great for the community. With more states joining the program in 2025, more people will have access to these benefits, making it easier to buy healthy, locally-grown food.
This program is a step toward reducing food insecurity and promoting better eating habits. Whether you’re buying vegetables for a family dinner or just looking for fresh fruit for snacks, the SUN Bucks Program can help you get what you need at a great price.
FAQs
What is the SUN Bucks Program?
The SUN Bucks Program helps people who use EBT benefits (via the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP) get additional funds to buy fresh, locally-grown food from farmers’ markets. With SUN Bucks, you can buy more fresh produce like fruits and vegetables, which helps families eat healthier and supports local farmers.
Which States Are Joining the SUN Bucks Program in 2025?
In 2025, several new states are participating in the SUN Bucks Program. Some of these states include:
California
Oregon
New York
Michigan
Minnesota
This expansion means more farmers’ markets in these states will accept EBT and offer SUN Bucks, allowing more people to benefit from the program.
How Can I Use My EBT Benefits with SUN Bucks?
To use your EBT card at a farmers’ market, simply visit a participating market and ask if they accept EBT. If they do, you can use your EBT card to purchase eligible items like fruits and vegetables. When using your EBT at a participating market, you will receive additional SUN Bucks to spend on fresh food.
Can I Use SUN Bucks at Any Farmers’ Market?
No, you can only use your EBT benefits and SUN Bucks at participating farmers’ markets. Each market may have its own rules for how they distribute SUN Bucks, so it’s always a good idea to check with the market beforehand to understand the details.
How Do I Know If a Market is Participating?
Most farmers’ markets that participate in the SUN Bucks Program will have signs or information stating that they accept EBT and offer the SUN Bucks benefit. You can also visit the program’s website or ask at your local market to confirm if they are part of the program.
The SUN Bucks Program is growing in 2025, with more states joining in to provide extra help for EBT cardholders. By participating in this program, you can get more money to buy fresh food from local farmers’ markets, which can help you and your family eat healthier. As more states like California, New York, and Michigan take part, it will be easier for more people to access healthy food at a lower cost. So, get ready to use your EBT benefits at more places next summer and enjoy fresh, locally-grown food with the help of SUN Bucks!
