By Steve Nakata, Administrative Services
PULLMAN, Wash. – Dining Services at Washington State University has partnered with the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to make fresh foods more accessible for qualified low-income students and families at The Market.
The Market, located in WSU’s Global Scholars Hall, specializes in items that contribute to a healthy lifestyle and sustainability. Much of the produce is locally sourced.
Students and others who qualify receive financial credit from the U.S. Department of Agriculture via a SNAP Card, which works like a debit card but can only be used to buy nutritional foods.
“The Market received SNAP certification because it continually provides fresh staples such as breads, cereals, fruits and vegetables, poultry and fish, as well as dairy products,” said Gary Coyle, director of Dining Services. “We are pleased to be a SNAP provider for our local community.”
Coyle is working to have The Market’s payment system upgraded to accept the SNAP Card and his team trained about what items can be purchased with the card. According to SNAP guidelines, household goods, food that is hot at the time of sale and food intended to be eaten in the store are not allowed. The Market will be ready to serve SNAP customers by the end of the fall semester.
Find more information at http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap.