NYC expands SNAP benefits with 'Get the Good Stuff' produce match

New York City is expanding a SNAP program intended to make healthy eating easier for people who rely on the benefits. The expansion, called "Get the Good Stuff," lets participants use a pink card at participating stores to receive a $1 match for each $1 they spend on eligible produce. The match is capped at $10 per day and $300 per month. For example, a $2 bag of grapes would cost the shopper $1, with the city paying the other dollar.

Twenty-one stores currently offer the program, and twelve more are expected to join soon. Fresh, canned, dried and other fruits and vegetables all count, according to NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Alister Martin. Senior Rosa Tejada of Corona, who lives on a fixed income, told News 4 New York that everything is expensive and that help for people with low incomes is welcome.

To take part, SNAP enrollees should use the health map on the city Health Department website to find a participating store, then ask for the pink card there.

The program differs from the city's Health Bucks program, which provides "health bucks" for use at farmers markets rather than grocery stores. Health Bucks has a maximum of $10 a day now, rising to $14 in 2027. Martin said the city uses several approaches to address food insecurity. The expansion responds to the affordability crisis and high produce prices.