In a significant move to enhance access to essential food items, Walgreens and Instacart have partnered to accept SNAP/EBT payments online at over 7,500 Walgreens locations across the U.S., including Duane Reade stores in New York. This initiative comes at a time when over 40 million Americans rely on SNAP benefits, representing a vital step towards reducing food insecurity.

According to Balachandra Visalatha, Walgreens’ SVP and chief product officer, this collaboration is indicative of their commitment to providing essential food items efficiently. The integration of SNAP/EBT payments allows customers to purchase thousands of SNAP-eligible products for same-day delivery through Instacart, enhancing the convenience for families and individuals who benefit from these programs.

For most Walgreens locations, SNAP/EBT payments have been accepted for in-store purchases. This partnership expands that capability, allowing customers to shop from home without the need to physically visit a store. Sarah Mastrorocco, Instacart’s VP and general manager of health, highlighted their aim to offer the best online selection for SNAP families, thus increasing both access and choice.

To utilize this service, customers can easily add their SNAP EBT card to their Instacart profile and shop from any Walgreens or Duane Reade storefront. At checkout, they can select how much of their benefits to apply. This streamlined process aligns with Walgreens’ vision of improving customer experience and operational efficiencies.

This partnership not only serves the immediate community needs but also positions Walgreens as a leader in the food retail sector. With nearly 9,000 retail locations, their collaboration with Instacart aligns with current trends in eCommerce, reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing omnichannel solutions for customers. As such, this development could reshape how SNAP households access essential goods in an increasingly digital marketplace.