Double Up Food Bucks grew substantially in 2019; more stores to join
The Double Up Food Bucks program saw substantial growth in sales across Iowa in 2019, the Healthiest State Initiative announced. Customers participating in the healthy food incentive program redeemed a total of $132,430 to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at 34 locations, up from less than $15,000 in purchases in 2018. The program, organized by the Healthiest State Initiative, allows SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) participants to match purchases of fresh produce made with their EBT card, up to $10 per day, with Double Up Food Bucks that can be spent on additional fruits and vegetables. Double Up Food Bucks got a big boost with the addition of 14 Fareway locations this year. Hy-Vee plans to pilot the program in two of its stores in January; participating grocery stores offer it year-round. Most farmers markets and farm stands that offered it in 2019 will resume in May. To find a complete listing of participating sites, click here.