Restaurant Meals Program | FoodHelpWorcester.org

Restaurants that display this emblem participate in the RMP.

If you are a SNAP participant who is at least 60 years of age, homeless, or has a disability, you may be able to use your SNAP/EBT card to buy meals at authorized restaurants. There are currently two (2) Worcester restaurants and one (1) Worcester food truck participating in the RMP.

Here’s what you need to know about the RMP in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts DTA consciously chose to partner with small, local businesses that are rooted in their neighborhoods in order to provide the maximum benefit to the entire community. The restaurants chosen have worked with DTA to develop menus that are culturally diverse, and align with the cultural composition of the people who live in them.

The Massachusetts program was developed with feedback from the City Taskforce, based on our experience using local vendors for Summer Meals, and during the pandemic lockdown. We believe that this approach not only provides benefits to all involved, but also provides healthier, fresher, more nutritious food.

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about the RMP.

Who Can Use the RMP?

You can use your SNAP at participating restaurants if you are

60 or older OR
Disabled OR
Homeless

How do I know if I'm eligible for RMP?

If you have an active SNAP case, and DTA is aware that you fit the criteria to use the RMP, you are already eligible and should be able to use your EBT card at participating restaurants. However, it’s still a good idea to check to make sure that you’re on the RMP list before using the program for the first time.

To verify that you are eligible, call the customer service number on the back of your EBT card (1-800-997-2555). Press option 6 for RMP and follow the prompts. Be sure to have your card number available.

If you are not on the eligible list and believe you should be – for example, if you’re couch surfing, or temporarily living with another family – contact your case manager and notify them of your situation.

Which Restaurants Accept SNAP?

Can I Use SNAP to Order Takeout or Delivery from Restaurants?

No. At this time, you can only use SNAP to order food for consumption at the restaurant, with the exception of the food truck.

Currently, there are 10 restaurants approved for the RMP across the state of Massachusetts. Two of them are in Worcester. They are Sabrosa Venezuela and New Wine Pizza. The Sabrosa Venezuela Food Truck is also approved for participation. You can find a full list of approved restaurants on the DTA website.

How Do I Use My SNAP at a Restaurant?

Simply go to the restaurant and let your server know that you’ll be paying for your meal with SNAP. They’ll then be able to run your EBT card, and you’ll get your meal.

NOTE: It’s a good idea to verify that you’re on the eligible list before going to the restaurant. See the second question for instructions.