Food Assistance Programs: SNAP and WIC
Issue No. 6: Food, Nutrition, and Access in Our Communities
Words - Terri Fleming and Julia Pitts
SNAP:
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps, is a food program for families in need that is subsidized by the U.S. government. These assistance programs have been available dating back to 1933 during the Great Depression. As of April 2020, almost 43 million Americans were receiving SNAP benefits. SNAP improves access to food to ensure all families with low incomes have money to purchase groceries monthly. SNAP benefits can be used to purchase any food for the household. Seeds and plants that can produce food for the household are also eligible under SNAP. SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase food for pets, paper products/cleaning supplies, and hygiene items.
WIC:
WIC is a supplemental nutrition program for low-income women, infants, and children up to age five who are categorized as “nutritionally at risk.” As a Federal grant program, WIC is available in all 50 states, Indian Tribal Organizations, Washington D.C., and the territories of Northern Mariana, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Receiving WIC benefits helps those who are pregnant, breast/chestfeeding, or new parents provide nutritious food options such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to their growing children. WIC also promotes breast/chestfeeding, connects parents to nutrition education and counseling, and provides access to screening and referrals to other health, welfare, and social services. WIC services can be found all over your city, including in health departments, schools, community centers, mobile clinics, and hospitals. To check if you qualify for WIC benefits, go to bit.ly/wic-benefits or visit your local WIC agency to be screened.
For both SNAP and WIC you must apply in the state or Indian Tribal Organization (ITO) that you have residence. The amount of benefits is calculated based on your household size. There are additional eligibility considerations, which recently have included work requirements. Once deemed eligible and accepted, you will receive an EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) or a monthly check. The EBT card has replaced the paper voucher used in the past, and is accepted at participating stores in your area, including grocery stores and local farmer’s markets, and is used the same as any other debit card.
