WEST CARROLL PARISH, La. (KNOE) - Louisiana has launched a pilot program aimed at encouraging Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to make healthier food choices.

Sammy Guillory of the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services stated that the pilot program is designed to make it easier for SNAP recipients to purchase healthy foods.

Under certain conditions, all SNAP recipients in Louisiana can receive a 30% bonus (up to $25) when purchasing produce. However, this benefit is only available at 13 Walmart stores within the parishes of Ascension, LaSalle, Sabine, Tangipahoa, Webster, and West Carroll when buying fresh fruits and vegetables.

"This program is designed to reward our SNAP recipients for purchasing healthy foods," explained Guillory.

Just hours after the program's implementation, Guillory reported seeing immediate effects. SNAP purchasers receive a bonus when they buy fresh fruits and vegetables, and this bonus can be used to purchase other essential items at any retailer that accepts Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards.

Guillory added, "We've seen about $3,000 in bonuses issued, and of that, about $1,600 has already been spent on other items. This shows that our recipients are actually utilizing the benefit, and the system is working effectively."

While the program may have a set end date, Guillory expressed hope that it can benefit families across the state for as long as possible.

"Our hope is to continue the program beyond the grant funding that we have. Right now, we anticipate the program lasting for about six to nine months. Once those funds are exhausted, we will have to discontinue the program unless we receive additional funding or approval from our federal partners," he said.

Guillory emphasized that there is no separate registration process for this program; recipients simply need to use their EBT card at participating Walmart stores. He believes this program can bring positive changes not only to the household finances of SNAP recipients but also to their nutritional choices.

Additional Information:

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program): A U.S. federal program that provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families through an EBT card for grocery purchases.
EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer): An electronic system for issuing and using government benefits, including SNAP.
Importance of Healthy Incentive Programs: Low-income households may face challenges in affording nutritious foods due to financial constraints. Incentive programs like this increase access to healthy options, potentially improving dietary habits and health outcomes.
Examples of Similar Programs: Other states in the U.S. have implemented similar pilot programs to encourage healthy food purchases among SNAP recipients. For instance, some regions offer additional discounts on specific healthy foods or enable the use of SNAP benefits at farmers' markets.
Program Sustainability: The long-term viability of Louisiana's pilot program remains to be seen. Securing additional government funding and policy support will be crucial for its continuation.