A pilot program in Alachua County is making it possible for homeless people to eat...in 30 minutes or less.
Those who receive food stamps and have a continuum of care card through the Alachua County Housing Authority are able to spend their benefits at select restaurants.
So far 350 homeless people who qualify for food stamp benefits, have signed up. The five participating restaurants serve about 4 people a week through the program.
If DCF determines it works, the elderly and disabled could have that option some day too. During a review of the program, the cost and ease of implementation will be weighed against the benefits.
This is the first pilot program of its kind in the Southeast.