Good news for people who get SNAP! People in two states can now get up to $60 extra each month through a new bonus reward plan. The goal of this project is to help people who need it the most get healthy food more easily and at a lower cost.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has given a large amount of money—$25 million—to help Electronic Healthy Incentives Projects (EHIP) get started. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) users can get extra benefits from this program if they buy fruits and vegetables at stores that are participating.
With SNAP, low-income families in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and U.S. regions can get money every month to help with living costs. The money is sent to people with electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used at shops that accept them and are reloaded every month.
People in the chosen states who get SNAP can get even more help as they try to eat better thanks to this new program.
Colorado Joins Washington in SNAP Reimbursement Program
The second state, Colorado, to use grant money from the USDA for this progressive plan. Washington was the first state to start the project, and Louisiana will soon follow suit.
How the Reimbursement Works
In Colorado, people who are eligible can get up to $20 back for each sale, up to a total of $60 back each month. The USDA says that the goal of this program is to “make it easier for SNAP households to access the healthy foods necessary for lifelong health and well-being.” In Washington, where the program began in June 2023, the rules are the same.
Impact on Monthly Benefits
KFF Health says that the average SNAP payment given in Colorado each month is $214. Given the extra reimbursements, users may see their benefits rise to $274, which is a substantial 28% increase in their monthly help.
Where to Use the Reimbursements
This program is being put in place at several stores and farmers’ markets in Colorado. This will make it easier for SNAP families to buy healthy foods.
Stay tuned for more news about this important project and how it continues to help families in need!
Want to get more out of your EBT benefits and still eat fresh, healthy food? Good news! There is no need for you to sign up for anything. Just buy fruits and vegetables at one of the stores that is participating, and the money will be added instantly to your EBT card.
Where to Shop
A lot of these stores are market shops and farm stands that might not be open every day. They are, however, perfectly placed in the state’s busiest cities, like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins.
Eligible Foods
The list of eligible foods is extensive and includes:
- All types of fruits and vegetables
- Frozen fruits and vegetables, provided they don’t contain added salt, sugar, or fat
- Dried fruits and vegetables (without added salt, sugar, or fat) available at farmers markets
- Dried beans
prize Tip: If your state has the Double Up Food Bucks program, you can even get a prize for shopping at farmers’ markets. This will help you get the most out of your benefits. You can find out more at https://doubleupamerica.org/.