Amazon is taking part in a pilot food program to help low-income families order groceries online.
The e-commerce giant is one of seven companies volunteering for a two-year pilot program. It will deliver groceries in a handful of states to families on SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
The goal is to make healthy food available to people who might not have access otherwise, like those living in food deserts.
"Online purchasing is a potential lifeline for SNAP participants living in urban neighborhoods and rural communities where access to healthy food choices can be limited," USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack said.
Amazon grocery delivery isn't new. The company started rolling out its AmazonFresh service in select cities a few years ago. But this is the first time families qualifying for food stamps will be able to order what they need online.
More than 43 million Americans receive benefits from SNAP. While the new program is only available in a few areas, the United States Department of Agriculture hopes to expand it if the pilot is successful.
Families and individuals who participate in the program will only be allowed to use their benefits for eligible food items like veggies and meat. The benefits will not cover service or delivery fees.
The program is slated to begin this summer.
