ATKINS, Ark. — A federal nutrition program offering discounted milk to low-income families is expanding to 21 grocery stores in Arkansas. Under the “Add Milk!” initiative, SNAP participants will receive a 50% discount on any brand or size of low-fat (1%) or non-fat (skim) milk at participating Houchens Food Group locations.
The expansion was marked by an event at Bill’s Cash Saver in Atkins, featuring U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-Ark.), who praised the program for promoting child development and bone health.
Funded by a $3 million USDA agreement with Auburn University’s Hunger Solutions Institute (HSI), “Add Milk!” is part of the Healthy Fluid Milk Incentives (HFMI) Projects created through the 2018 Farm Bill. The initiative encourages healthier diets, with studies showing incentive programs increase consumption of nutritious foods like dairy.
Currently active in over 1,100 stores across 32 states, HFMI will continue expanding thanks to new congressional funding. Supporters, including the International Dairy Foods Association, are urging lawmakers to include more dairy options like whole milk, cheese, and yogurt in future legislation.
Participating Arkansas stores include Bill’s Cash Saver, Cash Saver, Mad Butcher, Marion Market Place, Piggly Wiggly, and Save Mart. Houchens will also operate the program in over 270 stores across 13 additional states.
“This program benefits everyone—dairy producers, local retailers, and SNAP families,” said Dr. Alicia Powers of HSI. “We’re proud to see it grow.”
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