As the festive season and a new year draw near, a significant concern lingers in Florida - childhood hunger. Some dedicated advocates are fervently hoping for a special gift to alleviate this issue. The state now has a second chance to join a federal program that offers crucial food assistance to families, yet the deadline is rapidly approaching.

"Fighting Childhood Hunger in Florida - A Holiday Urgency"

Approaching Holidays and the Need for Food Assistance

During this time when holidays fill the air and a new year beckons, the problem of childhood hunger in Florida remains a pressing concern. Last year, Florida was among the thirteen states that chose to opt out of the SUN Bucks or Summer EBT program. This federal program, run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, provides struggling families with an extra $120 per child during the summer months when schools are closed. It serves as a vital lifeline for those in need.Governor Ron DeSantis has until January 1 to decide whether to participate in this program. Sky Beard, the Director of No Kid Hungry Florida, is strongly advocating for the state to take advantage of this opportunity. "So Florida did not participate last year but I do remain hopeful that we can have a different decision for next summer," said Beard.

The Impact of Hunger on Children

Hunger can have a profound impact on a child's life. As Beard pointed out, without access to healthy and nutritious food, children face difficulties in achieving academic success, maintaining good attendance, and even their physical health. In fact, one in five kids throughout the state is at risk of going hungry, especially in the post-pandemic era with inflation continuing to rise.It is crucial that families receive this additional assistance. The state-run programs, such as the state-run BreakSpot feeding sites, play a significant role in providing free breakfasts, lunches, and snacks when schools are closed during the summer holidays. However, there are still concerns about administrative costs, as states have to bear a portion of the program's expenses.

Enrollment in the SUN Bucks Program

For states that do opt into the SUN Bucks program, SNAP, TANF, and FDPIR families are automatically enrolled. Children at National School Lunch Program Schools whose parent or guardian has a qualifying income are also included. Once enrolled, SUN Bucks can be added to a child's SNAP account, issued as a separate EBT card, or sent in other ways to the child and their family. This provides flexibility and ensures that families have access to the much-needed food assistance.If you or your family need food now, make use of Second Harvest Food Bank's food locator tool. It can help you find the resources you need. To learn more about hunger in the Sunshine State in 2024, read the Florida Hunger survey.Copyright 2024 Central Florida Public Media