Ohio University market now accepting SNAP benefits

Jefferson Marketplace at Ohio University in Athens is beginning to accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

According to a news release posted on its website, students and area residents who qualify for SNAP will be able to use their benefits at the marketplace immediately. School officials say that the market’s location on the perimeter of campus will be beneficial in encouraging the surrounding community to participate.

Food insecurity persists at college campuses throughout the country, prompting schools to create new ways for students to donate unused meal swipes and get notified when there is food leftover from on-campus events. Ohio University began to tackle food insecurity by opening its own food pantry last spring.