SCC Pilot Program Offers Refunds For Produce Purchases

GILROY, CA — A state-funded pilot program is underway in Santa Clara County designed to ease the financial strain of buying fresh fruits and vegetables for families who utilize CalFresh Food.

The California Fruit and Vegetable EBT Pilot Project launched this month and replaces the Double Up Food Bucks program that ended in June after six years. The new program offers refunds of up to $60 per month to CalFresh Food recipients who purchase fruits and vegetables from participating stores in San Jose and Gilroy.

Santa Clara County is one of just a few dozen California counties selected to take part in the pilot program.

"Processed for is often cheaper than fruits and vegetables, which can make it hard for people with limited incomes to afford healthful food," said Daniel Little, director of the county's Social Services Agency. "The California Fruit and Vegetable EBT Pilot Project aims to support the health and well-being of residents who are enrolled in CalFresh Food by making nutritious whole foods more affordable."

Utilized funds approved by state lawmakers, CalFresh Food recipients will receive up to $60 back on produce purchases as a refund credited to their EBT cards each month. The refunded amount can be used on all food items that are eligible through CalFresh Food. Five stores are participating at launch, but the county is hopeful to expand the program if the pilot is successful.

Here are the Santa Clara County stores participating in the California Fruit and Vegetable EBT Pilot Project:

• Arteaga’s Food Center, 2620 Alum Rock Ave., San José
• Arteaga’s Food Center, 1003 Lincoln Ave., San José
• Arteaga’s Food Center, 204 Willow St., San José
• Arteaga’s Food Center, 6909 Chestnut St., Gilroy
• Santa Fe Foods, 860 S. White Road, San José

>> Learn more about how the program works on via the Department of Social Services.