Which program implemented an EBT model to assist low-income families?

The Food Stamp Program has evolved into what is now known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This program implemented an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) model to assist low-income families by providing them with benefits to purchase food. EBT systems modernized the delivery of benefits, replacing paper food stamps with a debit-like card that can be used in authorized grocery stores and supermarkets. This transition has increased safety, efficiency, and accessibility for beneficiaries, allowing them to use their benefits more seamlessly, as they can directly access funds without the stigma often associated with food assistance programs.

While the other programs may assist families in different ways—such as energy assistance—they do not utilize the EBT model specifically for food purchases. The Food Purchase Assistance Program and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program have different focuses and mechanisms, highlighting that the EBT model is specifically tied to SNAP for assisting with food-related needs.