Local and regional partners gathered April 16 for a meeting of the Wisconsin Nutrition Incentive Network (WINI), focusing on upcoming changes to federal food assistance programs (SNAP), (EBT) and efforts to expand access at farmers markets.

The meeting brought together organizations working across Door, Kewaunee and Manitowoc counties to increase access to EBT services and promote the growing Double Up Food Bucks program, which allows SNAP recipients to stretch their food dollars on eligible purchases.

Laura Apfelbeck, nutrition coordinator for the three counties, said the changes are part of a broader effort to improve access while maintaining program integrity.

“We’re seeing a lot of updates to SNAP that will affect how that money is used and how farmer’s markets can help,” Apfelbeck said. “We want to make sure people can access healthy foods and that the program is consistent.”

Wisconsin currently has one of the lowest SNAP error rates in the nation, and Apfelbeck says that maintaining compliance will be critical as new rules are implemented. Some changes include updated guidelines on eligible foods and how incentives can be offered.

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Apfelbeck said farmers markets are adapting to the changes by simplifying incentive programs.

“A lot of times, farmer’s markets are focusing more on fruits and vegetables because it’s clearer and easier,” she said. “That also goes well with programs like Double Up Food Bucks.”

The meeting also addressed stricter data privacy rules for SNAP users and the introduction of new online tools to help participants identify eligible purchases.

Apfelbeck said continued outreach will be paramount as the changes roll out.