Georgia Democrats are urging Gov. Brian Kemp to sign up for a federal program that could help feed over 1 million students next summer. The program, called SUN Bucks, provides families with school-age children $120 to buy groceries during the summer break. While families in participating states receive other federal benefits are automatically enrolled, the state would be responsible for half of the program’s administrative costs. However, Kemp has expressed concerns about the program’s sustainability and has not indicated a desire to join.
Democrats argue that the program could benefit around 1.2 million Georgia kids, criticizing Kemp for playing politics with children’s lives. They also tie the issue to the upcoming presidential election and the conservative Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, which calls for cutting eligibility programs for school meals.
Kemp’s office has highlighted existing programs like GaDOE’s Seamless Summer Option and the Happy Helpings program, which provide meals to students. However, state Sen. Jason Esteves believes these programs are not enough, especially in rural and south Georgia, where food insecurity rates are high.
The issue of free school meals has gained political attention, especially with Vice President Kamala Harris picking Gov. Tim Walz, known for signing a universal school meal program into law, as her running mate. While Kemp has not shown interest in the SUN Bucks program, Georgia Democrats are pushing for its implementation to ensure children have access to nutritious meals during the summer break.
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Photo credit georgiarecorder.com
