It was about two years ago when I found myself standing in line at my neighborhood Wilson Farms. The customer in front of me carried a basket full of sugary sweets and soda pop. After placing the items on the counter, she proceeded to pull out her NYS Benefits Card (EBT Card). Now I’m all for the occasional food indulgence, but the fact that there was not one healthy item in the cart that resembled real food… even Wilson Farms carried some food items that constituted real food. After her transaction was complete, she pulled a stash of cash out of her purse and began to purchase lottery tickets. While that was very frustrating, I’m not here to condemn the poor use of the EBT Card, as much as I’m here to promote the societal benefits of the card.
I believe in EBT Cards if they are put to good use. It’s rare that I see an organization promoting healthy purchases, but in recent years urban farmers markets have been accepting the form of payment, thankfully. I’m also happy to learn that the MAP Growing Green Farm Stand (learn more) is now accepting EBT Cards. It’s these types of arrangements that give me hope that the cards will one day help to encourage a healthier America, rather than a sick and obese America (with money to spare for lottery tickets).
As for the argument that EBT Customers don’t have the same access to healthy food options, that might be true, but the times are beginning to change thanks to organizations like the Massachusetts Avenue Project (MAP) and their healthy initiatives. Also, when a shopper voluntarily passes over healthy foods for junk foods, and then pays with any form of Government assistance, then the whole “access” argument goes out the window. In that case, the spotlight should shine on education and awareness of the benefits of healthier living starting with school programs. If junk foods are promoted within our schools, then that lesson will be carried into adulthood.