Kmart stores are offering unemployed Michigan residents some relief at the cash register.

The company announced today a new program giving a 20 percent discount on regularly priced store-brand groceries and drugstore merchandise to people without jobs.To participate, people need to have a state driver's license or identification card, and a state-issued unemployment benefits enrollment verification, such as an Unemployment Insurance Agency debit card or check stub.

Kmart will give them a Smart Assist savings card to qualify for the discount on purchases.

The program is available for up to six months, the company said on its Web site. Cards will be issued until January 2010.

The program excludes sale and clearance merchandise.