The U.S. Department of Agriculture has rejected Iowa’s proposal to replace the 2025 Summer EBT program, also known as SUN Bucks, with a food box program. This decision follows Governor Kim Reynolds’ refusal to participate in the Summer EBT program for 2024, a move that left food banks and pantries across the state overwhelmed with record-breaking demand this summer.
Although the governor’s grant program added 61 summer meal sites, the state only gained 21 new locations due to other closures. Many families still couldn’t access these meal sites because of transportation challenges. As a result, only 13% of eligible children received meals, compared to what SUN Bucks could have provided.
The Summer EBT program could benefit 245,000 low-income children across Iowa, regardless of where they live. It would inject $45 million into local economies, allowing families to use SUN Bucks at over 3,000 stores, farmers’ markets, and even online for grocery delivery. Studies show Summer EBT significantly reduces childhood hunger and improves kids’ diets with more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy.
Despite evidence of these benefits, Governor Reynolds has claimed Iowa parents might not make the best food choices for their families—a claim rooted in stereotypes, not data. Research clearly shows that when families have more resources, they make healthier food choices for their children.
If Iowa is serious about reducing food insecurity, proven solutions like Summer EBT should be embraced. The state could also expand SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) eligibility to cover families earning up to 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL), as the governor’s proposed food box program intended. This change would help more families access food assistance and automatically qualify children for programs like Summer EBT and free school meals.
However, participation in programs like SNAP and WIC remains low, even among eligible Iowans, partly due to stigma. When public figures make statements like the governor’s claim that “the safety net has become a hammock,” it discourages people in need from seeking help. SNAP enrollment is already at a 15-year low, even as hunger rates climb.
Meanwhile, food banks, pantries, and other nonprofits are struggling to keep up with growing demand. Their staff and volunteers are stretched thin, emotionally and physically, as they continue to support Iowans in need.
Iowa has until January 1 to commit to operating the Summer EBT program in 2025. The decision rests entirely with Governor Reynolds. Providing food for Iowa’s children isn’t about politics—it’s about investing in the state’s future. Solving hunger will require collaboration between government, nonprofits, and businesses. Together, Iowa can and must do better.