Posted on Monday, 16th November 2009 by admin
Benefits are a monthly food allowance for you and your qualifying children. The average benefit amount varies by state but is about $100 per person, with a maximum benefit of $668 per household with a few exceptions like Guam, the Virgin Islands and Alaska, where the cost of food is much higher. The average houshold benefit is about $228. There are currently nearly 35 million people enrolled in the SNAP program, and the goal is not only to feed but also to educate. Snap intends to address some of the issues that underlay the growing epidemic of obesity and diabetes causing major health concerns across the nation by providing nutritional and exercise education. The education classes, called “SNAP-Ed” help you learn to stretch your food budget, better shopping habits, cooking easy, tasty and healthy meals, and the importance of getting more exercise for a healthier life. Your family can attend so they will learn along with you.
Applying for SNAP, or food stamp assistance
Fill out an application at your local SNAP office or find out if your state allows online applications. To find out if you qualify for food stamp assistance without applying, try this SNAP pre-screening eligibility tool.
Once you have submitted your application, you’ll need to make an appointment with a SNAP worker. You’ll need to bring a number of things for documentation, so to be prepared for the interview, ask your caseworker for a list. Some things you might need are a driver’s license or ID card, pay stubs, bank statements, utility and other bills, and proof of address. If you are turned down for assistance, ask why. You have the right to appeal the decision. Ask to speak to the caseworker’s boss, and if that doesn’t work, ask for a “fair hearing”. It won’t cost you anything, and a person from the state organization will meet you at the office to make a decision.
How is SNAP administered?
The new program gives users access via a card much like a credit or debit card, far less stigmatizing than the embarrasing pull-out coupons. Enrollment in the program also pre-qualifies children for reduced or free lunches at school. You just shop normally and use the card as payment. Using the card, you can buy almost any kind of food except hot food prepared in the store (like deli fried chicken), but no non-food items like cigarettes, wine or beer.
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Tags: Food, Food Stamp
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