USDA to host SNAP sign-up day for farmers

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) - USDA's Food and Nutrition Service will join Alabama State Agencies for Agriculture and MarketLink to host Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Merchant Sign-up Day.

State and Agriculture departments are teaming up to increase SNAP recipients access to fresh farmer markets and products. Grants are available for free wireless Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) equipment and internet access. SNAP sign-up day will provide a one-stop-shop to help direct marketing farmers get authorized and receive additional support for incentive programs to help generate more SNAP customers.

"We are striving to expand access to healthy food to those participating in SNAP. The ability to accept SNAP benefits helps farmers expand their customer base and economically support their local community," says Southeast's Deputy Regional Administrator for USDA Food and Nutrition Service Erin Swanson-Hall.

The USDA SNAP sign-up event will take place Tuesday February 24th from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Garrett Coliseum Teague Building.

Farmers who are interested in becoming an authorized SNAP retailer should bring the following items:

1. Picture ID (driver's license or passport)

2. Social Security Card (or other official documentation with your name and SSN)

3. Copy of voided check for bank account you will use to deposit funds

Alabama SNAP authorized Farmer businesses can also participate in the Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) to provide products to WIC participants and the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) to provide seniors with coupons that can be exchanged for eligible foods.

For more information go to this website.  

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