SNAP Benefits: Does Your State Participate in the Restaurant Meals Program?

Millions of American families rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits but only a few participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).

States that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program in SNAP benefits. (Photo: Vibes)

SNAP Benefits

Millions of American families across the country rely on SNAP benefits to meet their daily needs and purchase nutritious foods. It is a program under the U.S. Department of Agriculture and is implemented at the state level and can only be used to purchase eligible items.

In a published article in Yahoo Finance, the SNAP benefits can only be used to purchase the following:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat and fish
• Dairy
• Breads and cereals
• Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
• Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat

However, there are states that allow recipients to use their Food Stamps or SNAP benefits to purchase food that is hot when sold or food that is sold to be eaten in the store.

READ ALSO: Delaware SNAP Program Delivers Up To $1,691 In October Payments, Providing Vital Support To Households

Restaurant Meals Program

According to an article published in the U.S. Department of Agriculture, that states who participate in the Restaurant Meals Program can allow SNAP recipients to purchase a hot meal at a restaurant. It includes the following states:

• Arizona
• California
• Illinois
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Rhode Island
• Virginia

Furthermore, only the following are eligible for the RMP:

• 60 years of age or older
• Disabled
• Homeless
• The spouse of a SNAP recipient who is eligible for RMP

However, not all counties in the states mentioned above participate in the RMP and not all restaurants also participate in the program.

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