What follows is a timely exchange on food stamp access to farmer’s markets:

Dear Rick Ross, Thank you for contacting the Small Farms Conservancy. On June 15 you wrote:

I work with a small farmers market in Sweet Home, OR. We would like to purchase a card reader to allow us to take Oregon food stamps, which work like a credit card. Is there a grant program that you could point us to that might grant us some funding to make this purchase?

We have researched your question and have good news for you. The machine you need is FREE.

The program is called FNS Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) from the USDA. The process is referred to as Electronic Benefit Transfer and uses an EBT card.

For online application go to www.fns.usda.gov/snap

For paper application call 1-877-823-4369

If you have questions call 1-800-894-0050 and ask to speak with someone regarding SNAP’s merchant hotline.

The program utilizes a unique machine, POS terminal, and there is no charge after acceptance of application and contract. Takes approx. 1 week to process. You will be asked for a completed application, bank details, a voided check, and a signed agreement/contract.

Your question was researched by Amy Jo Ferris of the Conservancy office.

Thanks again, Lynn Miller, vice president Small Farms Conservancy

Thank you very much for this – I appreciate the information, and your time.
However, it appears that the machine available for free requires a land line and electrical source. We are at an outdoor farmers market and require a wireless machine.
So again, is there anyone you can point us to that may write us a grant to cover some of the costs?
Thank again you for your trouble.
- Rick Ross
Salmon Brook Farms

Dear Rick;
A wireless terminal is available at no cost as well. You need to request it. If you have any questions the SNAP’s hotline (1-800-894-0050) is extremely helpful. Let them know you are from Oregon, for there are different restrictions for each state that apply.
Let us know if we can be of further assistance.
Sincerely,
Amy “A. J.” Ferris
Small Farms Conservancy