Great Health Divide | Stocking stores to supply SNAP beneficiaries

POMEROY, oh. (WSAZ) – In 2018, more than 4,800 people in Meigs County, Ohio used SNAP services.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the federal government’s largest nutritional assistance program.

SNAP offers benefits to eligible individuals and low-income families through an electronic benefit transfer card.

This card can be used like a debit card to purchase eligible groceries from authorized grocery stores.

The Food Fair in Pomeroy is the only full-service grocery store within miles.

“I’d rather come here than go to Athens every day,” said Miranda Long, a buyer.

There are convenience stores and dollar chains nearby, but these are usually not stocked with healthier food options.

“When it comes to fresh fruit and vegetables, there is no substitute for the traditional supermarket,” says Tim Forth, owner of Food Fair.

Forth and the Powell family saved the Pomeroy grocery store when it was due to close years ago. If it wasn’t nearby, residents would have to drive more than 30 minutes to the nearest grocery store.

Miranda Long stopped by to pick up a few items for her son’s birthday party. She says it’s always stocked with supplies as well as healthy and nutritious foods.

Food Fair is one of the few local shops in the area that accepts the benefits of SNAP and WIC. To become a trader who accepts these programs, you must go through an application and selection process.

“You have to have a certain amount of product to even qualify for WIC,” said Forth.

Many who take advantage of SNAP try to stretch those dollars as much as possible, which is not always easy.

“I think it’s a little more expensive to eat healthier,” Long said.

Tim Forth says grocery stores sell a larger amount of healthier food, which gives them a competitive price advantage.

“Traditional supermarkets have so much more choice,” said Forth. “Regarding various objects; Regardless of whether you want organic or something with a little more value, there is only a large selection. “

Many agree that more education could help beneficiaries and benefit recipients better understand the value of healthy, nutritious foods. Working parents may have difficulty finding the time or energy to prepare adequate and balanced meals for their family. Others may not know how to incorporate fruits and vegetables into cooking recipes.

“We can educate the public about healthy alternatives and healthy living,” said Forth. “It just pays off; lower medical costs, healthier children. “

The pandemic also put certain products and stocks under pressure, sometimes making shelves difficult to stock. Forth says it’s a responsibility they don’t take lightly.

“When we run out or have trouble getting supplies,” Forth said. “It’s a life changing event for the people of Meigs County.”

Not only are most of the products locally sourced, but the workforce is as well, and a few simple changes would benefit the entire community and every family that hugs them.

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source https://livehealthynews.com/great-health-divide-stocking-stores-to-supply-snap-beneficiaries/