DENVER — Denver Human Services launched its new Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Card E-Lockers, which makes it easier for people to access their food assistance benefits.
The new system helps Denver residents receive food benefits like their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) faster than receiving their cards through the mail.
“We can help remove some of the barriers for people to get access to their EBT card quicker,” said Victoria Aguilar, public information officer for the department. “We realized we needed to find creative ways for people who might not traditionally have access to EBT cards through regular mail.”
According to nonprofit Feeding America, 1 in 11 people in Colorado face hunger and 42.8% of households receiving SNAP benefits have children. Aguilar said the e-lockers will help get more families access to benefits quicker.
“This is a new, easier than ever way for people to access their EBT cards,” Aguilar said. “We are currently the only county that has e-lockers available, and they are available right outside our welcome center office.”
The e-lockers are located outside the department's offices at 12th Ave and Federal Blvd. Aguilar said the lockers are safe and can be used at any time.
“We understand that there are some community members that might not have permanent mailing addresses that include our unhoused neighbors,” Aguilar said. “We also understand that there are people who work within our business hours who are not able to come to our offices during our normal business hours.”
This is how the system works: First, residents will need to call the reserve center to reserve a locker at 720-944-4DHS (4347).
Then a QR code and pick-up code will be received through text or email. Next, residents will scan the code or enter the pickup code on the screen at the locker location.
Then they will sign for the card and a picture will be taken before the locker opens so the user can receive their EBT card.
So far, Aguilar said they have had 133 cards delivered through this new program the day after the requests were made.
“This is a new, easier than ever way for people to access their EBT cards,” Aguilar said. “An EBT card is electronic benefits transfer card which allows people who are receiving financial assistance through Denver Human Services to access those benefits.”
The new locker system is helping Denver resident Jermaine Blackmon get funds faster and safer. A benefit he said that is important.
“The climate of the world today, if you don’t pay attention, you will be taken advantage of,” Blackmon said. “It’s the best way to pick up your card. Safe, easy, (and) you don’t have to wait in line.”
Aguilars said DHS has plans to expand the program to other various locations around the city.
“This resource is an example of Denver Human Services meeting people where they are in their need,” Aguilar said. “So, anything that we can do to make it easier to access public benefits is really our goal.”
> Watch 9NEWS original shows, live Colorado news and weather updates, daily forecasts, and sports coverage for free on the 9NEWS+ app on Roku and Fire TV.
SUGGESTED VIDEOS: Full Episodes of Next with Kyle Clark
9NEWS+ has multiple live daily shows including 9NEWS Mornings, Next with Kyle Clark and 9NEWS+ Daily, an original streaming program. 9NEWS+ is where you can watch live breaking news, weather updates, and press conferences. You can also replay recent newscasts and find videos on demand of our top stories, local politics, investigations and Colorado specific features.
To download 9NEWS+ on Roku search for KUSA.
To download 9NEWS+ on Fire TV search for 9NEWS.