By Kevin Concannon, Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services, USDA
Today was a great day for increasing access to SNAP (formerly the Food Stamp Program) benefits. Here in Washington, I was joined by leaders from the food retail community, to announce two Federal resources to expand opportunities to nourish those in need. A new sign for retailers, “We Welcome SNAP,” will now be displayed that will alter the way participants view these vital benefits. While the new SNAP Retailer Locator, also announced today, is a convenient online tool that helps recipients find locations that accept – make that welcome – SNAP benefits and helps them make more informed shopping choices.
These two resources will also strengthen businesses. Research shows us that every $5 in new SNAP benefits generates as much as $9.20 in total economic activity. This is good news, since SNAP dollars move quickly into local economies. In fact, 97 percent of SNAP benefits are redeemed within a month.
Whether it’s a new sign to welcome recipients and provide more comfort using their benefits or establishing ways to easily find stores welcoming SNAP benefits, the Obama Administration is continuing its goal to ensure access to healthy nutrition for all Americans.
To learn more about the SNAP Retailer Locator, visit the web.
Snapshot of the Food and Nutrition Service's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) retail locater.
