SUN Bucks will deliver $120 per child to eligible families  

SANTA FE — Summer grocery benefits held up by a federal funding delay will begin reaching nearly 293,000 New Mexico children June 15, with eligible families set to receive $120 per child through the state’s SUN Bucks program. 

SUN Bucks, also known as Summer EBT, is a federal grocery benefits program administered in New Mexico by the Health Care Authority (HCA) and the Public Education Department (PED). The program helps families buy food for children during the summer months when school meals may not be available. Eligible families will receive a one-time benefit of $120 per child. Most eligible families will receive benefits automatically and will not need to apply. This year, Sun Bucks benefits were delayed by about 30 days due to federal staff cuts. 

“We know many families count on these benefits during the summer,” said New Mexico Health Care Authority Cabinet Secretary Kari Armijo. “Now that federal funding has been released, New Mexico is moving quickly to issue benefits and help families access food support as soon as possible.” 

“We appreciate families’ patience during the federal funding delay,” said Public Education Secretary Mariana Padilla. “We are continuing to work closely with schools and community partners to keep families informed as benefits begin rolling out across New Mexico. This program plays a critical role in helping students access nutritious meals during the summer months when school is out and many families rely on these additional resources. 

Children may automatically qualify for SUN Bucks if they: 

• Received SNAP benefits, Medicaid, or TANF (cash assistance) during the school year. 
• Qualified for free or reduced-price school meals through the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program. 
• Were identified by their school as experiencing homelessness, a runaway or participating in migrant education programs. 
• Determined as a foster care student by CYFD. 

Families who automatically qualify will receive a notice by mail and do not need to take any additional action. 

Families whose children do not automatically qualify may still apply if: 

• Their child attends a school participating in the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program. 
• Their household income is at or below 185% of the federal poverty level. 
• They live in New Mexico. 

Families can apply online at SUMMER EBT New Mexico. The application deadline for SUN Bucks is Aug. 22, 2026. Families who do not receive a SUN Bucks card or notice by Aug. 22, 2026, can find additional information about eligibility and benefits at Summer EBT Information. 

SUN Bucks benefits can be used anywhere SNAP benefits are accepted. Families who need additional food assistance can also: 

• Visit Food Finder Map to find nearby food distribution sites. 
• Visit YesNM Connect to find food and support services in their community. 

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About the New Mexico Health Care Authority 
The New Mexico Health Care Authority connects New Mexicans to the care and support they need to live healthy, full lives. The agency administers Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), cash assistance, child support services, and behavioral health care across the state. HCA also oversees the State Health Benefits program for state employees and manages the Health Care Affordability Fund to help make coverage more affordable for working families. The agency licenses health care facilities, investigates complaints, and ensures providers deliver safe, high-quality care. In addition, HCA supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a variety of home and community-based programs that protect health, safety, and human rights.