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Can You Buy Cold Sandwiches with Food Stamps at Sheetz and Other Convenience Stores
You’re standing in line at your local convenience store, fumbling through your wallet to find the perfect combination of cash and coins to pay for that much-needed cold sandwich. But just as you’re about to make your purchase, a question pops into your head: can you really use food stamps to buy a cold sandwich at a place like Sheetz, or are convenience stores exempt from this vital program?
As you ponder this question, you can’t help but wonder about the nuances of food assistance programs and how they interact with everyday shopping habits. Your mind starts to wander to other convenience stores and gas stations in the area, all of which seem to be convenient but not necessarily welcoming when it comes to using food stamps. But what’s the real story behind these policies, and how do they affect people who rely on assistance programs to make ends meet?
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of food stamps and convenience stores, exploring the rules and regulations that govern this intersection of necessity and commerce. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of where you can and can’t use food stamps, and what it means for the people who rely on these programs to get by. And perhaps, more importantly, you’ll have a better appreciation for the complex web of policies that shape our daily experiences at the checkout counter.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- You can use food stamps to buy cold sandwiches at Sheetz, but the type of sandwich may be subject to certain limitations.
- At Sheetz, hot sandwiches and other hot prepared foods cannot be purchased with food stamps due to USDA guidelines.
- Prepared foods, including hot and cold sandwiches from Sheetz, must be purchased directly for consumption, not for resale or distribution.
- For more information on what can be purchased with food stamps, visit the official USDA website or contact your local SNAP office.
- Food stamps can be used to buy cold sandwiches at other convenience stores that accept SNAP benefits, but specific store policies may vary.
- As of 2023, there have been no major changes to the rules and regulations for using food stamps to purchase food items, including cold sandwiches.
Food Stamp Eligibility at Sheetz Convenience Stores
Sheetz convenience stores are a popular destination for quick meals and snacks, but many customers wonder if they can use food stamps, or Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, to purchase cold sandwiches and other eligible items.
To determine whether you can buy cold sandwiches with food stamps at Sheetz, you need to understand the requirements set by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. Eligible items are generally considered to be those that are essential for daily nutrition, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, and whole grains. However, convenience stores like Sheetz often sell a wide range of items, including prepared foods, snacks, and beverages.
In most states, Sheetz is not considered a traditional grocery store, which means that their prepared foods, including cold sandwiches, may not be eligible for purchase with EBT cards. This is because the SNAP program has specific guidelines for what types of stores are eligible to accept EBT payments. Typically, only grocery stores, supercenters, and other retailers that sell a wide selection of staple foods are allowed to accept EBT payments. However, it’s essential to note that some Sheetz locations may be authorized to accept EBT payments, so it’s crucial to contact the store directly to confirm their EBT acceptance policy.
If you’re planning to use your food stamps to buy cold sandwiches at Sheetz, it’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm whether the store accepts EBT payments. You can also check the store’s website or social media pages for information on EBT acceptance. When you arrive at the store, let the cashier know that you have an EBT card and ask if they can ring up your eligible items separately. This will help ensure that you don’t accidentally purchase ineligible items with your food stamps.
In addition to calling ahead, it’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the SNAP eligibility guidelines for individual items. For example, if you’re purchasing a cold sandwich with turkey breast, you may be able to use your EBT card to pay for the bread, lettuce, tomato, and cheese, but not the turkey breast itself. This is because the turkey breast is considered a prepared food item, and SNAP does not typically cover the cost of prepared foods. By understanding the eligibility guidelines and contacting the store ahead of time, you can ensure that you’re using your food stamps wisely and staying within the program’s guidelines.
Using Food Stamps to Buy Prepared Meals
If you receive food stamps, also known as SNAP benefits, you may wonder if you can use them to buy cold sandwiches or prepared meals at convenience stores like Sheetz. The good news is that, in many states, the answer is yes, but with some limitations.
One key thing to understand is that SNAP benefits can only be used to purchase food items that are not prepared or heated on the spot. This means that if a store offers a hot sandwich or a meal that is cooked or heated in their kitchen, you cannot use food stamps to buy it. However, if the store sells cold sandwiches or prepared meals that are simply assembled or packaged, you should be able to use your SNAP benefits to purchase them. For example, at Sheetz, you might be able to buy a cold sandwich or a salad that is pre-made and packaged, but you would not be able to use your food stamps to buy a hot sub or a meal that is cooked in their kitchen.
When shopping at convenience stores like Sheetz, it’s essential to know what types of prepared meals are eligible for purchase with food stamps. To do this, you can ask the store staff if they accept SNAP benefits and what types of items are eligible. You can also check the store’s website or call their customer service number to see if they have a list of eligible items. Some stores may have a specific section of their menu that is labeled as “SNAP-eligible,” which can make it easier for you to identify what you can and cannot buy with your food stamps.
It’s also worth noting that some convenience stores may have specific rules or requirements for using food stamps to buy prepared meals. For example, some stores may require you to show your SNAP benefits card or provide identification in order to use your benefits. Others may have specific limits on the types or quantities of items you can purchase with your food stamps. To avoid any confusion or issues, be sure to ask the store staff about their specific policies and procedures for using food stamps.
If you’re unsure about whether a particular item is eligible for purchase with food stamps, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and avoid buying it. You can also contact your local SNAP office or a customer service representative for guidance on what types of prepared meals are eligible for purchase with food stamps. By doing your research and understanding the rules and limitations of using food stamps at convenience stores like Sheetz, you can make the most of your benefits and buy the food you need to feed yourself and your family.
In addition to knowing what types of prepared meals are eligible for purchase with food stamps, it’s also essential to understand how to use your SNAP benefits at convenience stores. To do this, you will typically need to present your SNAP benefits card or provide your Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card number to the store staff. You may also need to enter a PIN or provide identification in order to complete the transaction. Some stores may have specific procedures or requirements for using food stamps, so be sure to ask the staff if you’re unsure about what to do.
Limitations on Purchasing Cold Sandwiches with Stamps
While some convenience stores like Sheetz do accept electronic benefits transfer (EBT) cards for food purchases, there are certain limitations on what can be bought with food stamps. This means that not all cold sandwiches are eligible for purchase with stamps. In fact, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), which oversees the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), has established strict guidelines for what can be purchased with food stamps.
When it comes to cold sandwiches, the main concern is whether they qualify as prepared foods or not. Prepared foods are typically considered non-eligible for purchase with food stamps, as they are often seen as taxable items. However, not all convenience stores follow these guidelines consistently, which can lead to confusion for customers. For instance, if a convenience store sells a cold sandwich as a pre-packaged item, it might be eligible for purchase with stamps. But if the same store sells the same sandwich as a made-to-order item, it likely won’t be eligible.
To avoid any confusion, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the specific store’s policies regarding food stamp purchases. Some stores might have a clear list of eligible and non-eligible items, while others might not. One practical tip is to call ahead and ask the store directly about their policies. For example, if you’re planning to visit a Sheetz store, you could call them and ask, “Can I buy cold sandwiches with my food stamps?” This will give you a better idea of what you can and cannot purchase with your stamps.
Another factor to consider is the type of cold sandwich being sold. If a store sells a cold sandwich that’s made with pre-packaged ingredients, it’s more likely to be eligible for purchase with stamps. On the other hand, if the store sells a cold sandwich that’s made-to-order with fresh ingredients, it’s unlikely to be eligible. For instance, if a convenience store sells a pre-made turkey sandwich that’s wrapped in plastic and sits on a shelf, it might be eligible for purchase with stamps. However, if the same store sells a made-to-order turkey sandwich that’s assembled in front of you, it likely won’t be eligible.
Ultimately, it’s crucial to remember that food stamp policies can vary widely from store to store, and not all cold sandwiches are created equal. To navigate these complexities, it’s essential to be informed and prepared. By calling ahead, checking store policies, and understanding the nuances of prepared foods, you can make the most of your food stamps and get the cold sandwiches you need.
Hot vs Cold Sandwiches with Food Stamp Benefits
When it comes to using food stamps at convenience stores like Sheetz, one of the most common questions is whether or not hot or cold sandwiches are eligible for purchase with Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. The answer lies in the way these stores handle food stamp benefits, and it’s essential to understand the rules to avoid any issues or confusion.
In the United States, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) allows recipients to purchase eligible food items using their EBT cards at participating retailers. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), hot foods and prepared meals are not eligible for purchase with food stamps. This means that if a convenience store like Sheetz offers hot sandwiches or wraps, these items are not eligible for purchase with an EBT card. Conversely, cold sandwiches, such as those made with sliced meats, cheeses, and vegetables, are typically eligible for purchase with food stamps. However, it’s crucial to note that even cold sandwiches may not be eligible if they are prepared or assembled in-store, such as a deli sandwich made to order.
To determine whether a cold sandwich is eligible for purchase with food stamps at a convenience store like Sheetz, look for the following signs: pre-packaged or pre-assembled sandwiches, such as cold cuts or wraps, are usually okay. However, if the sandwich is made to order or requires assembly in-store, it may not be eligible. For instance, if you’re at Sheetz and you spot a pre-packaged sandwich on the shelf, such as a turkey wrap, you can likely purchase it with your EBT card. On the other hand, if you order a custom-made sandwich from the deli counter, it may not be eligible for food stamp benefits.
When shopping for cold sandwiches with food stamps at convenience stores, it’s also essential to understand the specific store’s policies and procedures. Some stores may have varying levels of staff knowledge or training on food stamp benefits, so it’s always a good idea to ask a store employee if they accept EBT cards and what types of food items are eligible for purchase. You can also check the store’s website or call ahead to confirm their EBT policies. For example, if you’re unsure whether Sheetz accepts food stamps at a particular location, you can check their website or give them a call to confirm.
Ultimately, the key to successfully purchasing cold sandwiches with food stamps at convenience stores like Sheetz is to be aware of the rules and regulations surrounding food stamp benefits. By understanding what types of food items are eligible and how to navigate store policies, you can avoid any confusion or issues during checkout. As a food stamp recipient, it’s also a good idea to keep a record of your purchases, including receipts and store policies, in case of any disputes or questions from authorities.
âť“ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use food stamps to buy cold sandwiches at Sheetz?
You can use food stamps to buy cold sandwiches at Sheetz, but the purchase must meet certain requirements. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, allows recipients to buy most grocery items, including cold sandwiches, at authorized retailers.
To make a purchase at Sheetz using food stamps, the recipient must follow the guidelines set forth by the USDA, which governs the SNAP program. The cold sandwich must be a packaged item, such as a sandwich wrap or a pre-made sub, and not a made-to-order item. Additionally, the purchase must be made at a Sheetz location that accepts SNAP benefits, which is the majority of their stores.
It’s worth noting that not all Sheetz locations are authorized to accept SNAP benefits. The retailer has the option to decline participation in the program, although many major retailers like Sheetz, 7-Eleven, and CVS do participate. It’s essential to call ahead and confirm that the Sheetz location near you accepts SNAP benefits before making a purchase with your food stamps.
Are there any limitations on the types of cold sandwiches that can be purchased with food stamps?
Yes, there are limitations on the types of cold sandwiches that can be purchased with food stamps. Under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, individuals can buy most grocery items, including cold sandwiches, from authorized retailers like convenience stores, provided that the items meet certain eligibility requirements.
The main limitation on cold sandwiches purchased with food stamps is that they must be prepared on-site, which means that pre-packaged or pre-assembled sandwiches are generally not eligible for SNAP benefits. This requirement ensures that the food items are fresh and meet certain food safety standards. For example, if a convenience store like Sheetz sells sandwiches that are made to order and wrapped in-store, they can be purchased with food stamps, but if they sell pre-packaged sandwiches from a supplier, they cannot be bought with SNAP benefits.
It’s worth noting that SNAP benefits do not cover hot or prepared foods, including hot sandwiches, from convenience stores or other retailers. Additionally, some convenience stores and other retailers may have their own policies regarding the types of food items they will accept for SNAP benefits, so it’s always a good idea to check with the store before making a purchase.
Can I buy hot sandwiches with food stamps at Sheetz?
You can buy hot sandwiches with food stamps at Sheetz. This is because Sheetz, a popular convenience store chain in the United States, participates in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps. However, it is essential to note that not all hot sandwiches are eligible for purchase with food stamps.
Sheetz stores that accept food stamps typically have a designated area for SNAP purchases, which may include a separate checkout line or a specific section of the store where eligible items are displayed. To use food stamps to buy hot sandwiches at Sheetz, customers must have an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which is used to access their SNAP benefits. When making a purchase, customers must inform the cashier that they will be using their EBT card and ensure that only eligible items, including hot sandwiches, are being paid for with SNAP benefits.
Sheetz stores have a wide variety of hot sandwiches, including breakfast items, subs, and wraps, all of which are eligible for purchase with food stamps. In fact, many convenience stores and restaurants, including Sheetz, offer a range of hot and cold food items that can be purchased with SNAP benefits. It’s worth noting that some hot sandwiches may be subject to certain restrictions or limitations, such as requiring a minimum purchase amount or being limited to a certain number per customer. If a customer is unsure about the eligibility of a particular hot sandwich, they should ask the cashier or a store manager for clarification.
Are there specific guidelines for using food stamps to purchase prepared foods?
In the United States, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, allows eligible low-income individuals and families to purchase food items at participating retailers. However, there are specific guidelines regarding the purchase of prepared foods, including cold sandwiches, at convenience stores like Sheetz.
Generally, SNAP participants can use their electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards to purchase prepared foods only if the retailer has a valid SNAP approval. According to the USDA’s SNAP program guidelines, prepared foods can be purchased at retail stores that are licensed to accept SNAP benefits, but only if the foods are prepared on-site and paid for with SNAP benefits before the food is removed from the store. For example, if a convenience store like Sheetz prepares cold sandwiches in-house and sells them to customers, SNAP participants can use their EBT cards to purchase the sandwiches if they are prepared and paid for on-site. However, if the sandwiches are pre-packaged or prepared off-site, SNAP participants would not be able to purchase them with their EBT cards.
It’s essential for SNAP participants to check with the store where they plan to make a purchase to confirm whether the retailer accepts SNAP benefits for prepared foods. Additionally, the USDA requires retailers to display a notice indicating whether they accept SNAP benefits for prepared foods. This notice is typically displayed near the checkout counter or on a sign in the store. By understanding these guidelines, SNAP participants can ensure they are using their benefits in accordance with the program rules and regulations.
Where can I find more information about what can be purchased with food stamps?
To find more information about what can be purchased with food stamps, you can start by visiting the official website of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), which oversees the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that food stamps are a part of. You can navigate to the webpage that outlines the eligibility requirements and benefits of SNAP, including the types of food and other items that can be purchased with SNAP benefits.
The USDA’s website provides a detailed list of eligible food items, which includes fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, dairy products, bread, cereals, and many other staple foods. However, the website also notes that certain items are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, such as prepared meals, hot foods, and non-food items like household supplies and personal care products. For example, you cannot use food stamps to buy a cold sandwich made with ingredients like meats, cheeses, and produce, unless you assemble the sandwich yourself at home.
If you’re looking for specific information about shopping for groceries at convenience stores like Sheetz, you can also contact your local SNAP office or the store directly to ask about their SNAP acceptance policies and what types of items are eligible for purchase with food stamps. According to the USDA, in 2020, over 38 million people in the United States received SNAP benefits, and more than 70% of those households used their benefits to purchase groceries at supermarkets and other retail stores. However, it’s worth noting that convenience stores and some other types of retailers may have specific policies or limitations on what types of SNAP-eligible items they can stock or sell.
Can I use food stamps to buy cold sandwiches at other convenience stores?
You can use food stamps, also known as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, to buy cold sandwiches at some convenience stores, but their acceptance is not universal and largely depends on the specific store’s policies and SNAP program requirements.
Many convenience stores, including Sheetz, 7-Eleven, and Kum & Go, participate in the SNAP program and allow customers to use their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards to purchase eligible food items, including sandwiches. However, it’s essential to note that stores often have specific rules and restrictions regarding the types of food items that can be purchased with SNAP benefits, and not all cold sandwiches may be eligible. For instance, some stores might only accept purchases of sandwiches that are made in-store, rather than pre-packaged ones.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), convenience stores can participate in the SNAP program if they meet certain requirements, such as having a valid SNAP retailer agreement, maintaining an inventory of eligible food items, and providing customers with clear information about their SNAP policies. While this means that many convenience stores are willing to accept SNAP benefits, it’s crucial for customers to call ahead and confirm the specific store’s policies before making a purchase, especially if they plan to buy items that are not typically considered eligible under the SNAP program.
Are there any changes to the rules and regulations for using food stamps to purchase food items?
In recent years, there have been changes to the rules and regulations for using food stamps to purchase food items. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is often referred to as food stamps, has updated its guidelines to reflect a shift in the types of purchases that are eligible for assistance. As of 2016, the USDA, which oversees the SNAP program, clarified that hot prepared foods are not eligible for purchase with food stamps, while cold prepared foods, such as sandwiches and salads, are allowable.
However, it’s essential to note that even if a food item is allowed, the store must follow specific guidelines when handling and preparing the food. For instance, Sheetz and other convenience stores must ensure that food stamps are not used to purchase hot foods, such as hot sandwiches or soups, even if the food is displayed in a cold case. According to the USDA, convenience stores with a hot food case or service line must not accept SNAP benefits for the purchase of hot foods, including those that are labeled as “hot” or “warm.” This distinction is crucial, as it affects the types of items that can be purchased with food stamps.
It’s also worth noting that SNAP recipients are allowed to purchase prepared foods, such as sandwiches and salads, from participating stores, as long as the food is not heated or served hot. This allows SNAP recipients to purchase convenient and affordable meals from stores like Sheetz, while adhering to the program’s guidelines. The USDA provides guidance to retailers on the types of prepared foods that are eligible for SNAP purchase, and stores must follow these guidelines to ensure compliance with the program.
Can I use food stamps to buy cold sandwiches online for delivery or pickup?
Yes, you can use food stamps to buy cold sandwiches online for delivery or pickup, but there are some limitations and requirements to keep in mind. To purchase cold sandwiches with food stamps, you must use a retailer that participates in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) online ordering and delivery program.
Many convenience stores, including Sheetz, have started to offer online ordering and delivery or pickup services for cold sandwiches and other eligible items. According to the USDA, since 2020, more than 40 states have partnered with online retailers to allow SNAP customers to place orders online and pick them up at a store or have them delivered. However, not all online ordering services are created equal, and some may not be compatible with your state’s SNAP program.
When purchasing cold sandwiches online with food stamps, you’ll need to check with your local SNAP office to confirm that the retailer you choose is authorized to accept SNAP benefits for online orders. Additionally, you’ll need to ensure that the items you’re purchasing are eligible for SNAP benefits, such as cold sandwiches made with eligible ingredients like meats, cheeses, and bread. By following these steps and checking with your local SNAP office, you can use your food stamps to buy cold sandwiches online for delivery or pickup.
Are there any restrictions on using food stamps to buy cold sandwiches for a group or family gathering?
Most states allow recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, to purchase prepared foods, including cold sandwiches, at authorized retailers, provided they are not heated or cooked on the premises. However, there are specific rules and restrictions that apply when buying cold sandwiches with food stamps for a group or family gathering.
Generally, food stamp recipients can purchase cold sandwiches, such as those found at convenience stores like Sheetz, as long as they are not heated or cooked on the premises. This is in accordance with federal regulations, which permit SNAP recipients to purchase prepared foods that are not heated or cooked on the premises, as long as they are not hot, steamy, or served in a heated container. Retailers are required to post signs indicating which items are eligible for food stamp purchases.
It’s essential to note that some states have additional restrictions or requirements for purchasing prepared foods with food stamps. For example, some states require retailers to obtain a permit to sell prepared foods, while others may have specific rules regarding the type or quantity of prepared foods that can be purchased with food stamps. Prior to making a purchase, it’s always a good idea to check with the retailer or the state’s SNAP office to confirm the specific rules and regulations in your area.
What is the process for using food stamps to buy cold sandwiches at Sheetz?
To use food stamps to buy cold sandwiches at Sheetz, one must first check if the specific Sheetz location they plan to visit accepts electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, which are the electronic form of food stamps. This can usually be done by calling the store directly or checking their website, as not all Sheetz locations accept EBT cards. Once it’s confirmed that the store accepts EBT cards, the customer can proceed to use their card to purchase cold sandwiches.
When purchasing cold sandwiches with food stamps at Sheetz, customers will need to access their EBT account information on their card and then select the specific items they wish to purchase, including the cold sandwich. If the store has a self-checkout lane, customers will need to insert their EBT card and select the food stamp option, just as they would with a credit or debit card. If a cashier is assisting the customer, they will need to inform the cashier that they would like to pay with food stamps and specify the items, including the cold sandwich. The cashier will then ring up the items and handle the payment through the EBT system.
It’s worth noting that not all cold sandwiches are eligible for purchase with food stamps, as they must meet certain requirements. For example, cold sandwiches must be prepared and packaged in accordance with state and federal regulations, and they must not contain any ingredients that are not eligible for purchase with food stamps. Additionally, food stamps can only be used to purchase items that are available for purchase with cash, so customers cannot use their EBT card to purchase items that are not available at the store.
Can I use food stamps to buy cold sandwiches from the Sheetz grab-and-go section?
You can use food stamps to buy cold sandwiches from the Sheetz grab-and-go section, but there are some restrictions and requirements that must be met. In the United States, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, allows recipients to purchase eligible food items from participating retailers, including convenience stores like Sheetz.
To be eligible for purchase with food stamps, cold sandwiches must be packaged in a sealed container and meet certain requirements, such as being prepared in-store or pre-packaged and displayed for sale in a grab-and-go section. According to the US Department of Agriculture, which administers the SNAP program, convenience stores must be authorized to accept SNAP benefits in order to sell eligible items.
Sheetz, being a convenience store chain, is authorized to accept SNAP benefits, which means that customers can use their food stamps to purchase cold sandwiches, pre-packaged snacks, and other eligible items from the grab-and-go section. However, it’s essential to note that not all items in the grab-and-go section may be eligible for purchase with food stamps, and customers should always check with the store staff or manager to confirm which items are acceptable.
Can I use food stamps to buy cold sandwiches at Sheetz regardless of the time of day?
Yes, you can use food stamps to buy cold sandwiches at Sheetz regardless of the time of day, as long as the store accepts Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards. Sheetz is a convenience store chain that participates in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which allows eligible recipients to purchase food items, including prepared foods like sandwiches, using their EBT cards.
Sheetz stores that accept EBT are typically open 24 hours a day, which means you can use your food stamps to buy cold sandwiches at any time, day or night. This is convenient for people who work non-traditional hours or have unpredictable schedules. According to the Sheetz website, over 60% of their locations accept EBT, but it’s essential to verify that the specific store you plan to visit accepts EBT before making a purchase.
When using food stamps to buy cold sandwiches at Sheetz, it’s crucial to follow the store’s policies and procedures. Some stores may have specific restrictions or requirements for purchasing prepared foods using EBT. Additionally, the value of your purchase will be deducted from your EBT balance, and you can check your remaining balance at the store or through the EBT website. By understanding the rules and requirements, you can enjoy the convenience of buying cold sandwiches with your food stamps at Sheetz, no matter the time of day.
