SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The
Supplemental
Nutrition
Assistance is administered by the United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Services (USDA FNS). SNAP increases food security for more than 687,664 Maryland residents each month (as of December 2024 data). Households qualify for SNAP benefits based on eligibility guidelines, including household size, gross monthly income, and basic Program (SNAP) household expenses. SNAP recipients receive their monthly benefits on a debit-style Electronic Benefit Transfer (SNAP/EBT) card. In Maryland, this SNAP/EBT card is called the “Independence Card” and can be used to pay for eligible food items from USDA-authorized retailers.
What is a “SNAP-eligible” food? Examples of SNAP-eligible items include fruits, vegetables, baked goods, meat, fish, poultry, seeds and plants that produce fruits and vegetables, eggs, dairy, and frozen foods. Examples of ineligible SNAP items include hot foods, vitamins or medicine, paper products, soap, and alcohol. Learn more at USDA FNS.
SNAP acceptance at farmers markets is a practice that strengthens local economies, broadens customer bases for farmers markets and direct-marketing farms, and provides consumers experiencing food insecurity with greater access to fresh, locally produced fruits, vegetables, and other foods. Maryland SUN Bucks helps families with school-aged children who receive free or reduced-price meals buy groceries during the summer break when school meals are unavailable. Building on the former Summer SNAP program, Maryland SUN Bucks will help 543,000 children (2024) across the state who receive free and reduced-priced meals. Learn more at Maryland DHS.
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