What You Need to Know About SNAP

Many SNAP recipients also access food pantries, such as Fred’s Pantry x CHHOP, to get enough food, but it should be noted that not everyone who is going to a food pantry receives SNAP benefits. The recent pandemic has sent many people to food pantries who would not otherwise have need for that access. Pandemic related job loss and little or no savings has created food insecurity for more people, including those who have never before been in that situation. 

SNAP does more than provide a way for people to access food, it also creates jobs. When  money is spent on SNAP more jobs are created. According to a 2010 study by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), for every $1 billion spent on the program between 8,900 and 17,000 jobs are created.

SNAP benefits are geared to families with children, senior citizens and people with disabilities. Adults with no dependents can receive SNAP benefits only if they are working part-time, or are enrolled in an educational program. SNAP benefits can be used at participating retailers to purchase nutritious food that is on an approved list that includes staples such as bread, fresh produce, dairy products and meat. 

If you would like to know more about SNAP, Feeding America offers a comprehensive overview of what it is and how it works. 

https://www.feedingamerica.org/take-action/advocate/federal-hunger-relief-programs/snap