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Food Stamp Recipients May Now Purchase Groceries Online

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Anyone who receives aid from the Missouri Food Stamp/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP can now purchase food online—but only from certain retailers.

According to the Missouri Department of Social Services, the United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Services has currently approved two retailers, Amazon and Walmart, for online purchasing.  But DSS says more grocery retailers could be added.

In a news release, DSS says this is a permanent option for SNAP recipients.  The benefits don’t cover delivery fees or other charges. 

As of April 30, 2020, 752,315 Missourians or 360,937 households received Food Stamp/SNAP benefits, according to DSS.  And DSS says a new record was set for a one-month increase in Missouri’s Food Stamp/SNAP caseload.   In March, 660,628 individuals, or 311,401 households participated in the program. 

To learn more about using SNAP benefits online, click here or call 855-FSD-INFO Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Michele Skalicky has worked at KSMU since the station occupied the old white house at National and Grand. She enjoys working on both the announcing side and in news and has been the recipient of statewide and national awards for news reporting. She likes to tell stories that make a difference. Michele enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking, camping and leisurely kayaking.