(LITTLE ROCK, Ark.) — The Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) has launched a new companion app that will help SNAP beneficiaries determine which food items are eligible for purchase as restrictions on buying candy, soda, and other unhealthy beverages goes into effect for the program on Wednesday.
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and DHS highlighted Arkansas’ upcoming implementation of the SNAP Nutrition Waiver at an event this morning.
The SNAP Nutrition Waiver is designed to encourage healthier eating habits and improve long-term health for families across the state. Over the past several months, DHS has been working closely with retailers, partners, and beneficiaries to ensure families have the information and resources they need to prepare for this transition. More than 2,500 retailers across the state are adapting their systems to make this important program possible.
“This program reflects our mission of helping Arkansans access nutritious foods while encouraging eating habits that can support long-term health and well-being,” said DHS Secretary Janet Mann. “As July 1 approaches, our focus remains on educating and supporting our beneficiaries to successfully adapt to the SNAP Nutrition Waiver guidelines by demonstrating how to use their benefits to purchase eligible foods and prepare healthy, nutritious meals.”
The DHS Division of County Operations (DCO), which administers the SNAP program, has spent the past several months working closely with retailers, partners, and others to prepare for implementation and minimize disruptions for beneficiaries.
“County offices across the state are committed to providing clear communication, educational resources, and support to families as they navigate these changes,” said Mary Franklin, Director of the Division of County Operations. “As part of that goal, DHS has partnered with Sifter Solutions to develop a mobile app that will allow SNAP beneficiaries to scan food items and quickly determine whether they are eligible for purchase under the new waiver requirements. This tool is designed to make shopping easier, reduce confusion at check out, and give families greater confidence as they make healthier purchasing decisions.”
The free app is now available on both Android and Apple devices and can be found by searching for “AR SNAP Companion” on either app store or downloaded on the SNAP website at ar.gov/SNAP. The app allows users to scan bar codes to determine if an item is eligible for purchase. For those that are not eligible, it highlights alternate choices for products that can be purchased with SNAP benefits.
DHS has also partnered with the UAMS Culinary Medicine program to develop a series of videos showcasing quick, easy, and healthy recipes that anyone can make on a budget. The series, called “Make It Snappy”, stars Chef Alyssa Frisby. The first few episodes can be watched on the app or by visiting ar.gov/SNAP, and additional episodes will be released in the coming weeks on those platforms and on the DHS Facebook page.
DHS will continue statewide outreach leading up to implementation to ensure beneficiaries, retailers, and partners have the information they need before the waiver goes into effect on July 1 and moving forward.
For more information about the SNAP Nutrition Waiver and available resources, visit ar.gov/SNAP.
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