USDA Pilot Program for SNAP Coming to Washington

Washington and Oregon users of USDA’s Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, or SNAP will be able to purchase groceries online beginning later this summer.

USDA is testing the online purchase program and has agreement with seven retailers, including Safeway in Washington and Oregon.

In a statement, Secretary Tom Vilsack said, “Online purchasing is a potential lifeline for SNAP participants living in urban neighborhoods and rural communities where access to healthy food choices can be limited.”

USDA hopes the pilot program can identify and correct any potential safety or technical concerns for purchasing online using SNAP benefits.

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