New program will allow some Michigan food assistance recipients to use benefits on restaurant meals

LANSING, Mich.—A new program in Michigan will allow some eligible food assistance recipients to use their benefits to purchase restaurant meals, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced Tuesday.

The Restaurant Meal Program will serve residents who face difficulty preparing their own food due to disability, age, or lack of kitchen access, the MDHHS said.

Adults over age 60, people with a disability (including those who receive Social Security Income or other disability benefit programs) and people experiencing homelessness are among those who will be eligible for the program.

MDHHS is opening the program for restaurants to enroll in across the state.

Restaurants can enroll starting December 22.

MDHHS has not yet announced when eligible food assistant recipients can start redeeming benefits at participating restaurants.

A list of participating restaurants will be posted on the MDHHS website when it becomes available.

For restaurant owners interested in applying to the program, visit the state’s website.