SNAP Recipients Can ‘Click and Collect’ Groceries Online

COLUMBUS, Ohio — In an effort to stem the spread of COVID-19 a new program will allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to order groceries online and pick them up curbside, minimizing their exposure in grocery stores.

Announced Wednesday by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, the Click and Collect program allows families in the SNAP program to place grocery orders online or over the phone. If grocery stores have wireless mobile point-of-sale devices, they can swipe customers’ EBT cards at curbside.

“This is a welcome development in these challenging times,” said ODJFS director Kimberly Hall. “It will help keep families safe as we all work together to limit social distancing and stay healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

For grocery stores that do not have mobile point-of-sale devices, customers can still order groceries in advance and pay for them inside the store. Retailers also have the option to process manual vouchers at curbside. Grocers cannot accept the EBT card number over the phone.

Gov. Mike DeWine applauded the effort during his daily coronavirus update on Wednesday, saying it will help ensure the most vulnerable Ohioans have food access during the pandemic, including mothers who don’t have child care options and adults with underlying health conditions.

“This option reduces the time SNAP recipients are in the grocery store and reduces the risk of community spread,” he said.

The state approved ODJFS’ request for a six-month extension for recertification periods for March, April and May. It also received federal approve for its request for all SNAP recipients to receive the maximum benefit possible for their families in March and April.

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.