DENVER, CO — Hunger Free Colorado is encouraging families across the state to prepare for the return of Summer EBT (also known as SUN Bucks), a vital program that helps ensure children have access to nutritious food when school is out of session.
Beginning in late May 2026, eligible families will receive a one-time benefit of $120 per child to purchase groceries during the summer months. Benefits will be distributed on a Summer EBT card, which can be used at most grocery stores and farmers markets.
“Summer should be a time of joy for kids—not hunger,” said Elissa Hardy, Director of Client Services at Hunger Free Colorado. “Summer EBT is a critical tool to help families bridge the gap when school meals are unavailable. We encourage families to take a few simple steps now—like updating their mailing address—to make sure they receive this important benefit.”
Most eligible children will be automatically enrolled in Summer EBT. This includes children who attend schools participating in the National School Lunch Program and meet eligibility criteria, such as qualifying for free or reduced-price meals or receiving benefits like SNAP, Colorado Works (TANF), or Medicaid. Children in foster care, experiencing homelessness, or who are part of migrant families may also be automatically enrolled.
Families whose children are not automatically enrolled may still qualify and are encouraged to apply. Eligibility includes attending a participating school and having a household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level. Families can use Colorado’s new Summer EBT Enrollment Checker to find out if their child is automatically enrolled or if they should apply for 2026 benefits.
Hunger Free Colorado is partnering with No Kid Hungry, a campaign of Share Our Strength, to help ensure families across Colorado are aware of and able to access Summer EBT benefits.
“We’re proud to partner with Hunger Free Colorado to make sure families know about Summer EBT and how to access it,” said Chloe Eberhardt, associate director of benefits access for No Kid Hungry. “Programs like Summer EBT are proven to reduce child hunger, and outreach is key to making sure every eligible child gets the support they need.”
Families who received Summer EBT last year should keep their existing card, as benefits may be added to it again this year. To avoid delays, families receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or Colorado Works should ensure their contact information is up to date through PEAK or their county office.
Eligible students will receive a letter in the mail indicating that they will be receiving the benefit. If your child already has a Summer EBT card and is eligible again this summer, $120 should be added to their existing card at the end of May. For new participants, cards will be mailed to the address the Summer EBT Program has on file for your child (new cards can take 30-45 days to arrive). You can use the card to buy groceries at the store. You will get a separate card for each approved child in your household.
To learn more about eligibility, check enrollment status, or apply, visit the Colorado Department of Human Services Summer EBT webpage: cdhs.colorado.gov/summer-ebt
For additional support:
- Email: cdhs_sebt_supportcenter@state.co.us
- Call EBT Card Services: 888-328-2656
- Need to update your mailing address or request a new card? Login to the Summer EBT Portal.