How SNAP changes may affect your local bodega
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Stores that accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits have until Nov. 4 to meet stricter food stocking requirements.
Why it matters: Your corner store could look markedly different before long — and the changes could hurt Hollywood's most vulnerable.
Zoom in: To continue accepting SNAP (aka food stamps), stores will be required to offer seven items in each food category: dairy, vegetables or fruits, grains and protein
- They also must offer a perishable variety in at least three of the four categories.
- That's obviously a departure from what you find at most bodegas right now.
Between the lines: The U.S. Department of Agriculture says that the change will mean our area's most vulnerable families have more nutritious options on the shelves.
- But Hunger advocates worry stores will ditch SNAP instead. And that would hurt folks in food deserts without supermarkets.
By the numbers: Almost half of Hollywood's SNAP retailers are convenience stores, according to the USDA.
- Nearly 12% of households in Broward receive SNAP benefits, according to the latest Census Bureau data.
- Paco Vélez, president and CEO of Feeding South Florida, says areas like Sistrunk, Lauderhill, Deerfield, parts of Sunrise and West Park rely on local convenience stores, given the limited grocery stores nearby.
State of play: Last month, a judge struck down state restrictions that blocked SNAP benefits from being used on sugary drinks and candy.
- Florida is one of 23 states that have created new SNAP restrictions under pressure from the Trump administration.
What they are saying: "SNAP benefits are the first line of defense against food insecurity," Vélez adds.
- "The more barriers we put to accessing food on those benefits, the more families are going to have to rely on external resources."