Published on December 22, 2025
Mayor Requests Governor Abbott Fund Program to Allow Low-Income Kids to Receive Summer Food Assistance
SAN ANTONIO (December 22, 2025) – Today, Mayor Jones sent a letter to Governor Greg Abbott regarding his decision to line-item veto the $60 million in funding that would have enabled Texas to participate in the federal Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program, a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) program that allows low-income families with school-aged children to receive benefits when schools are closed for the summer.
According to the USDA, SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) offers $120 in grocery benefits for each eligible school-age child during summer break. Families can then use SUN bucks to buy food from authorized retailers in participating states, Tribes, and territories.
Earlier this year, Governor Abbott vetoed the measure that would have allowed an estimated 3.75 million children statewide to participate in the program; however, the state has until January 1, 2026, to commit to covering the administrative costs needed to participate.
Office of the Mayor Dr. Jenise Carroll Email Media Contact
Office of the Mayor