EBT

All New Mexicans deserve the opportunity to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from local growers in their community. When food stamps went from paper to electronic eleven years ago in New Mexico, a large segment of our population lost the ability to shop at farmers' markets with their food stamp benefits. By bringing wireless EBT machines into our markets, we will help increase the access of low-income individuals to the healthiest, best-tasting food available. It will also increase the income of New Mexico's small-scale farmers.

Finally, after many years, the cost of wireless machines has come down enough to make the program feasible. Additionally, with the personal commitment of New Mexico's Secretary of Human Services, a new and important partnership has been formed with the department responsible for income support and EBT across the state.

As of December 2010, 20.1% of the population in New Mexico received SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits or EBT. This number does not reflect how many more residents may actually be in need or qualify. Food security continues to be a significant problem in our state.

In New Mexico, SNAP is run by the NM Human Services Department. They are our partner in this program to bring EBT to farmers' markets so that more low-income residents have access to healthy, locally-grown produce.

In addition to EBT, markets may also incorporate a debit transaction option with the EBT program. If you are interested in bringing EBT/Debit to your market, please contact Denise Miller at 1-888-983-4400, or via email at dmiller@farmersmarketsnm.org.

The application to become an authorized EBT retailer can be found on the Food Nutrition Services (FNS) website.