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 under the Christmas tree this year. The state holds a second opportunity to join a federal program that offers crucial food assistance to families, yet the deadline is rapidly approaching.

Governor's Decision Looms

Last year, Florida was among the thirteen states that chose to opt out of the SUN Bucks or Summer EBT program. This federal initiative, 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. Governor Ron DeSantis has until January 1 to make the decision to participate. Sky Beard, the Director of No Kid Hungry Florida, is strongly urging the governor to seize this opportunity. "Florida did not participate last year, but I remain hopeful that we can make a different choice for the next summer," said Beard.The importance of this additional assistance cannot be overstated. As Beard pointed out, without access to healthy and nutritious food, children face numerous challenges in achieving success. Hunger can have a profound impact on a child's academic performance, attendance, and even their physical well-being. In fact, one in five kids across the state is at risk of going hungry, especially in the post-pandemic era with inflation continuing to rise.

State-Run Programs vs. Federal Aid

Officials from Florida's Department of Children and Families claim that there were sufficient state-run programs in place to support families during the summer months when they opted out last year. These include state-run BreakSpot feeding sites that offer free breakfasts, lunches, and snacks when schools are closed for the summer holidays. However, the state also expressed concerns about administrative costs, as they have to bear a portion of the program's expenses.For states that do decide to opt into SUN Bucks, SNAP, TANF, and FDPIR families are automatically enrolled. Additionally, children at National School Lunch Program Schools whose parent or guardian has a qualifying income are also included. Once in the program, SUN Bucks can be added to a child's SNAP account, issued as a separate EBT card, or provided in other ways to the child and their family.If you are in need of food right now, you can utilize Second Harvest Food Bank's food locator tool. To learn more about hunger in the Sunshine State in 2024, read the Florida Hunger survey.It is clear that this is a critical issue that requires attention. By participating in the federal program, Florida can make a significant difference in the lives of countless families and children, ensuring they have the nourishment they need to thrive. Let's hope that Governor DeSantis makes the right decision and brings hope to those facing hunger this summer.