BEXAR COUNTY, Texas – New restrictions on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are now in effect across Texas. The restrictions are changing what recipients can and cannot buy at the grocery store.
As of Wednesday, SNAP users can no longer use their benefits to purchase certain items, including candy as well as sweetened drinks such as soda and sports beverages. The changes are aimed at encouraging healthier food choices.
For some residents — especially those living in areas with limited grocery access — the new restrictions may create new challenges.
In south Bexar County, Hope for the Hurting Ministries hosts a food drive the last Friday of every month and every time. Organizers said the food drive’s line wrapped around all the way to Interstate 37.
“The need is great, and we hear it from the people that a lot of them are just so grateful,” Hope for the Hurting Pastor Martin Medellin said. “And we’re giving a big shoutout to the (San Antonio) Food Bank, of course, for their assistance and, you know, their love to help the community.”
Without a large commercial grocery store near the Southside Independent School District community, many rely on smaller retailers such as dollar stores or gas stations for typical food purchases.
“We’re here to help. We’re bringing vegetables, fruits … good food for families, seniors and children," Medellin said. “So, we’re going to be here to just try to fill in that gap.”
For residents like Mary Salazar, the new SNAP restrictions are also about accessibility. She said health issues make it difficult for her to travel long distances to larger grocery stores.
“I have to go all the way to Military Drive,” Salazar said. “Right now, I can barely drive over here.”
Items no longer eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits include:
- Candy, including nuts or fruit coated in chocolate, yogurt, or caramel
- Sugary drinks such as soda and sports drinks
Some snack items are still allowed for purchase with SNAP benefits such as:
- Breakfast bars
- Trail mix
- Nuts that are not candied or coated
- Chips
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