OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — As early as April 1, Nebraskans enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) may be able to order groceries online and have them delivered to their door thanks to a new pilot program.
On Monday, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) released a statement saying the United States Department of Agriculture has chosen Nebraska to be part of the pilot program as part of the 2014 Farm Bill.
Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Nebraska Director of Children and Family Services Stephanie Beasley praised it, saying it couldn't have come at a better time.
“A natural response to getting groceries, while also practicing social distancing and self-quarantining, is to order online and get groceries delivered. Before, Nebraskans who relied on EBT to get their groceries had no option but to go to a brick and mortar store. Now they can help flatten the curve and order groceries delivered from home.”
Currently, eight retailers are authorized to participate in the program including:
- Amazon
- Dash’s Market
- FreshDirect
- Hy-Vee
- Safeway
- ShopRite
- Walmart
- Wright’s Markets
Of those eight, only Walmart and Amazon are "qualified retailers that will be able to handle SNAP purchases online in Nebraska."
Two Walmart stores will participate initially. One in Norfolk and one in South Sioux City.
Amazon will be able to deliver state-wide when the program starts.
DHHS says the program will also be of service to people who may have a tough time getting to brick-and-mortar stores for groceries.