The SNAP Restaurant Meals Program: Fighting Hunger by Providing Elderly, Disabled and Homeless People Increased Access to Prepared Foods
Little-known federal program a low-cost option for the hungry
By Jessica Bartholow — Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
According to data released recently by the U.S. Census Bureau, poverty has reached record levels, with 46.2 million of us now living in poverty. It should be no surprise that working-aged Americans have the highest percentage of poverty, as the lack of jobs is the strongest driver in the 2010 poverty figures. Read more »
The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that 45 million Americans are receiving food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps. In these challenging economic times, it is critical to use all available tools to increase food access options for all people, particularly elderly, disabled and homeless people.
Since the 1970’s Federal law has allowed elderly, disabled and homeless people to purchase prepared meals at restaurants. The Restaurant Meals Program is federally approved and implemented at a state and county level.
Storing and cooking food – things many Americans routinely do – is often hard and sometimes impossible for elderly, disabled and homeless people. The Restaurant Meals Program can help overcome these challenges and help these individuals find a new way to buy food. To qualify, restaurants must first meet eligibility requirements set by the participating state.
Check out the following videos to learn more about the Restaurant Meals Program:
Special thanks to the following organizations which made the above films possible:
- Alameda County Community Food Bank
- Alliance to End Hunger
- Blinded Veterans Association
- California Restaurant Association
- Congressional Hunger Center
- Food Research and Action Center
- Hunger Action Los Angeles
- League of United Latin American Citizens
- National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty
- National Restaurant Association
- River City Food Bank
- Sacramento Food Bank
- Sacramento Housing Alliance
- Sacramento Hunger Coalition
- St. Anthony Foundation Dining Room
- St. Anthony Foundation Justice Education Program
- St. Mary's Center Senior Shelter
- St. Vincent De Paul Community Center
- San Francisco Human Services Agency
- SUBWAY® Restaurants
- Western Center on Law & Poverty
This website was supported by the organizations listed above.
