Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries can now use their EBT cards to purchase groceries from online retailers Amazon and Walmart due to a rapid adoption after a pilot program and COVID-19.
“We appreciate the accommodations that many retailers have made to support individuals at high risk of serious health consequences from COVID-19,” said Mike McCormick, interim director of the DHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities. “Anything we can do to help Oregonians access necessities and limit their potential exposure to illness, is absolutely crucial at this time.”
Oregon has been part of a pilot program that allows SNAP recipients the opportunity to purchase groceries online. In March, the Department of Human Services (DHS) gave access to online purchasing in Portland and Grants Pass for Walmart and Amazon. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, both retailers moved up their expansion dates to help those who have difficulty or are unable to get to a store.
DHS officials said purchasing groceries online supports social distancing and is necessary to slow the spread of the virus.
If your work hours are reduced or you lose your job, you may become eligible for SNAP if you meet eligibility requirements. You can apply for SNAP benefits without visiting an office.
DHS is keeping local offices open during this pandemic to serve people who do not have access to the Internet.
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