TDC: What is EBT and how can you accept it?
TB: EBT is an electronic system through which food and cash benefits are distributed to individuals. Any retail establishment can apply as long as they meet eligibility. To accept EBT, you have to carry a certain variety of staple items - produce, bread, dairy among them - and we happen to carry over 11,000 of these products between our online market and our retail storefront, so we easily met that standard. (Not to mention, they are all produced in Florida!)
TDC: Where did you get the idea for this?
TDC: Where did you get the idea for this?
TB: We have always sought to make local food more accessible to Central Floridians. We realized over time that this meant also making it accessible to everyone, regardless of income level. While our locally sourced produce is often less expensive than a grocery-store counterpart, we still sought to reach those who relied on government assistance for their groceries.
TDC: How are you reaching out to EBT users to let them know about your store?
TDC: How are you reaching out to EBT users to let them know about your store?
TB: We will be launching grassroots outreach throughout our community.
TDC: What other similar businesses to yours (in Orlando or outside) take EBT?
TB: Most grocery stores also accept this form of payment, but we are the first locally-focused store in Central Florida we are aware of to offer this service. Many Co-op's now accept EBT throughout the country, and even farmer's markets accept them now.
TDC: What percentage of your business do you see coming from EBT?
TDC: What percentage of your business do you see coming from EBT?
TB: It's hard to say, but we have consistently received requests year after year so we expect those folks to return with enthusiasm. Our process to apply has long been tied up with government red tape. We are excited that the long wait is over, to finally accept this and be able to answer in the affirmative - "Yes, we accept EBT!"
