Grocery Store

For those who qualify for WIC: Washington WIC Shopping Guide, Oct 2017

Seasonal fruits and vegetables in WA state

Food stamps can used at some farmers markets and farm stands. Find out more here.

Eat a snack - don't shop hungry!
Bring your creativity. Use non-verbal communication and items in the store.
Follow the newcomer's lead when it comes to choosing grocery items. Don't tell them what to buy or not to buy.
Ask the person what they like to eat. What foods would they normally make with their family?
Don't forget your grocery bags.
Only certain items can be purchased on the food stamp card (EBT). Make sure you and your new friend know what can and can't be purchased with the EBT. For example, non food items like soap, pet food, medicine, and alcohol are not eligible. For more information check out the guide here.

COVID-19 Precautions

Encourage the guest to make a list (mental or written) of the items they would like to buy, as to limit time at the store.
Limit grocery store orientation to items on their list
Don’t forget a mask and hand sanitizer
Wipe down grocery cart with sanitizer
Remember to socially distance while at the store

Go to Customer Service and sign up for a grocery store discount card. If helpful, you can ask for a map of the store.
Keep in mind that in some parts of the world, groceries stores offer one or two choices for an given item. It may be a new experience to choose from a dozen varieties of bread or milk, for example.
Demonstrate the difference in price between name and store brands items to help make a decision about which items to buy.
Look at packaging and labels. Is something weighed in pounds or ounces? Look at the expiration date and sell by date and explain the difference. Look for halal certified symbols if relevant.

Select, bag, and weigh fruit.
Show which fruits and vegetables are seasonal in WA state (fresher and cheaper).
Talk about price. For example: 4/$1.00 does not mean always mean that you need to buy 4 of the item to get the reduced price.

Walk around and show what different medicines are for (cough, fever, eyes, nose, etc.).
Show where to take a prescription (Rx) to the counter.
Locate the drop-off and pick-up counter.

Study package labels on meats (item name, cost, poundage).
Look for Halal meats and labels.
Most meat departments will cut up a whole chicken at no extra cost (ask the butcher).

Look for a check out aisle light that is on and open
Put items on conveyor belt
Use the store card or coupons for a discount
Slide EBT card like a credit card and push button. Don't do this for them, but have them slide the card and enter pin on their own
Bag groceries if necessary
Show where coins come out (if applicable)
Check the receipt for the remaining EBT balance
If you notice your new friend appears confused be sure to ask if they would like help. Keep in mind that everyone's learning style is different. Some people like to watch how something is done, while others like to figure things out for themselves the first time .