SAIPAN — The CNMI Nutrition Assistance Program has extended its hot food waiver through June 27, allowing NAP recipients to continue using their benefits to purchase pre-packaged hot meals as Sinlaku recovery continues across the islands.
The extension applies only to approved pre-packaged hot, ready-to-eat meals purchased at Authorized NAP Retailers. Local NAP benefits can also be used to buy imported fruits and vegetables under the waiver.
Restaurant purchases are not covered under the waiver, the agency said.
NAP said the extension is especially helpful for households that do not have power or cooking access at home. Approximately 45% of Saipan electrical customers remain off the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation grid as of May 27, according to the CNMI Joint Information Center’s most recent update.
The CNMI NAP reminded all recipients and authorized retailers that program integrity violations are investigated in accordance with CNMI Administrative Code Title 55-30 and applicable federal regulations. The agency said violations involving EBT trafficking and fraudulent activity will not be tolerated.
NAP recipients with questions about eligible purchases or the extension can contact the NAP Office at (670) 237-2800.
