IDHS working with restaurants in DeWitt County to accept food stamps

Posted on August 9, 2021

By Blake Haas

DEWITT COUNTY – The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is looking for partners to launch a unique restaurant meal pilot program to provide meals through SNAP customers.

The initiative, piloted in DeWitt County, aims to provide prepared meals to the elderly, disabled, and homeless Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers.

According to a news release, the effort was spearheaded by two restaurants in DeWitt County, with hopes of expanding in 2022.

“At IDHS, we are always looking for ways to help the families we serve put nutritious food on the table. The restaurant meals program is a win-win for restaurants and our communities. This program will bring more business to restaurants – and crucial meals to individuals in need,” said IDHS Secretary Grace Hou.

Selected restaurants would be able to accept SNAP benefits through the Illinois Link Card as a form of payment for eligible customers.

For a restaurant to qualify, food sales must account for at least 50% of an establishment’s total sales. Additionally, the restaurant must have dine-in seating available, be fully accessible to persons with disabilities. It also must comply with current, federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and/or orders throughout the program.

Those who are interested are encouraged to apply before Aug. 13 at http://www.dhs.illinois.gov/rmp.

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].

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