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A lot of people out there truly struggling to get by, and public assistance programs like SNAP offer some relief. Some farmer’s markets and grocery stores take it a step further by offering “double dollar” SNAP incentives.
These programs are regional, and the rules vary depending on the area, but the basic idea is the same: if you use your SNAP dollars (which stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) at participating markets and grocers, you can get vouchers to spend on more fresh food. NPR reported on this initiative a while back. Market organizers in D.C. noticed that customers often didn’t have a lot money to spend, so they raised money to create a program that gives SNAP spenders a token, good for a certain amount of dollars. Essentially, they get double dollars for their SNAP money.
NPR points out why this initiative is such a great idea: it addresses poverty, boosts local farming economy, and promotes healthy eating.
There’s no single, nationwide database of these initiatives, but the list at the link below comes close. If your state isn’t included on the list, you can try searching for programs in your area online. You can also contact Michigan-based Double Up National Network. They encourage people in other states to contact them to find similar incentives in their area.
Photo by perla123.
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