[CA] CALPADS Flash #292:  Update To SUN Bucks Programs.

The California Department of Education (CDE) issued Update Flash #292 to clarify the SUN Bucks program's structure, differences from the previous P-EBT program, and responsibilities for Local Educational Agencies (LEAs). Here are the main takeaways:

Overview of SUN Bucks Program

• Introduction: SUN Bucks is a federal program launched in 2024, similar to P-EBT, designed to provide summer food benefits to eligible students.
• Program Timeline: The SUN Bucks eligibility window spans two school years, unlike P-EBT’s single school-year eligibility.
  • 2024: July 1, 2023 – August 31, 2024
  • 2025: July 1, 2024 – August 31, 2025

Key Differences from P-EBT

1. Eligibility Basis: SUN Bucks eligibility is based on individual household income, unlike P-EBT, where all students in CEP schools were eligible.
2. Data Source: SUN Bucks pulls data directly from the Statewide Automated Welfare System (SAWS) rather than using CALPADS’ Direct Certification status.
3. Application Requirements: LEAs must continuously accept and process NSLP applications and Alternative Income Forms (AIF) throughout the eligibility window.
4. Evaluation Period: LEAs should upload eligible students’ records promptly to ensure benefits issuance aligns with monthly data pulls from CALPADS.

Responsibilities for LEAs

• Data Collection and Communication:
  • LEAs are encouraged to notify families about eligibility to set clear expectations on benefits.
  • Maintain updated FRPM, migrant, and homeless program records throughout the school year for accurate eligibility assessments.
  • Communicate with families in CEP schools that enrollment alone doesn’t guarantee benefits; individual applications are required.

SUN Bucks for Summer 2025

• Best Practices: LEAs should collect income information and process applications as economic situations change throughout the year.
• Planning for CEP Schools: LEAs with CEP and Provision 2/3 schools should communicate to families the need for income-based eligibility forms, even in non-base years.

Additional Information

• Resources: LEAs can access USDA’s outreach toolkit and CDSS resources to help families understand their eligibility.
• Contact Information: For program-specific questions, contact details for household and LEA support are provided.

Final Notes

• Importance of Timely Submissions: LEAs should prioritize early submissions of eligibility data to expedite benefits for families.
• Updated Law: New legislation permits redetermination of student eligibility in CEP schools during non-base years for LCFF purposes.

The SUN Bucks program requires clear understanding and coordination by LEAs to ensure eligible students receive their summer benefits on time.

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