SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is one of the most crucial anti-hunger programs in the United States, with 12% of the population receiving benefits, according to the Center on Budget Policies and Priorities (CBPP).
SNAP ( Photo: Marca )
SNAP benefits can be used in a variety of places, including grocery stores and farmers’ markets
Eligible individuals, whose income is at or below 130% of the poverty line, receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card loaded with benefits to purchase eligible items such as food, drinks, and food-producing plants and seeds.
During the spring season, people can use their SNAP benefits to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at farmers’ markets, and many states have programs that allow SNAP recipients to double the purchasing power of their SNAP dollars at these markets. Customers can use the USDA‘s SNAP Retail Locator to find stores near them that accept SNAP benefits.
Most grocery stores, ranging from large supermarkets like Kroger and Publix to small, locally owned stores, accept SNAP benefits.
SNAP plays an essential role in providing low-income families and individuals with access to nutritious food, which can improve overall health and well-being. The program provides crucial assistance to people experiencing food insecurity, and its benefits can help families stretch their food budgets.
The program also has benefits for the broader economy, as SNAP spending helps support local businesses and agricultural producers
It is important to note that the SNAP program is funded by the federal government and administered by state agencies, and people must apply for benefits through their state’s SNAP office.
In summary, SNAP benefits can be used to purchase eligible items such as food, drinks, and food-producing plants and seeds at grocery stores and farmers’ markets. Eligibility is based on income, and the program plays a critical role in providing assistance to people experiencing food insecurity.
The USDA’s SNAP Retail Locator can help people find stores that accept SNAP benefits, and farmers’ markets may offer special programs that allow SNAP recipients to double their purchasing power. SNAP is an important anti-hunger program that supports local businesses and agricultural producers, and its benefits can help families stretch their food budgets.
