27-02-2025
Some Virginia SNAP recipients can use their EBT cards at restaurants
Some Virginia SNAP recipients can now use their benefits at certain local restaurants.
State of play: The Virginia Department of Social Services recently launched its Virginia Restaurant Meals Program, which it describes as a "tremendous step towards fighting food insecurity" for residents that struggle to make hot meals at home.
Eligible SNAP households are those that are 60 or older, permanently disabled, experiencing homelessness, or the spouse of an elderly or disabled SNAP recipient.
How it works: The program allows some Virginians who use SNAP, formerly food stamps, to use their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card at participating restaurants, the same way they would at a grocery store.
Diners aren't charged tax or tip.
Just over a dozen Richmond-area restaurants are part of the program.
They include Carytown Gyro, The Beet Box, Touché Pies and Fries, Best Wings & Tacos, Kokonut Grill, and some KFC and McDonald's locations.
What we're watching: The state will review how effective the program was by the end of the year, 13NewsNow reported.
