New Mexicans can temporarily purchase ready-to-eat foods from deli departments 

SANTA FE – Effective immediately, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers in New Mexico can temporarily use their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards to purchase hot foods prepared for immediate consumption from deli departments at EBT-authorized retailers. This emergency measure, announced today by the New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD), will remain in effect until July 26, 2024. This benefit is not applicable to restaurants or other non-EBT-authorized retailers. 

“These hot meals are vital for families displaced by the wildfires, providing them with a much-needed source of nutrition and comfort during this challenging time,” said Kyra Ochoa, Deputy Secretary for the New Mexico Human Services Department. “The ability to purchase ready-to-eat, warm meals for themselves and their families can make a significant difference as they navigate tough circumstances.” 

This announcement follows the approval of a waiver requested by HSD from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Services. The waiver ensures that families who are unable to prepare food due to home damage or displacement caused by wildfires have access to hot meals, alleviating some of the stress and hardship during this crisis. 

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We talk, interpret and smile in all languages.  We provide written information to our customers in both English and Spanish and interpretation services are available in 58 languages through our provider, CTS Language Link. For our hearing, and speech impaired customers, we utilize Relay New Mexico, a free 24-hour service that ensures equal communication access via the telephone to individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind or speech disabled. 

The Human Services Department provides services and benefits to 978,206 New Mexicans through several programs including: the Medicaid Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Child Support Program, and several Behavioral Health Services.