SNAP
SNAP is the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, a federally funded assistance program, which is overseen by the USDA but run by the individual states. In 2011 this program served more than 45 million people, or 1 in 7 Americans.
SNAP was previously known as "Food Stamps," but SNAP benefits are now received via an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. Paper food stamps are no longer used. Each month, benefits are wirelessly transferred to the recipient's account. Cash benefit programs, such as the Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children program, can also be used with the same card for ATM withdrawal. SNAP benefits are not cash benefits.
SNAP benefits can only be used at authorized retailers, including supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores and farmer's markets. The program allows recipients to purchase food items, or plants and seeds that will produce food. However, alcohol, tobacco, pet food, and hot prepared food are not eligible for SNAP benefits.
Learn more about trends in SNAP participation. http://economix.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/11/17/united-states-of-hunger/?emc=eta1.
Controversial "Foods"
There is some controversy about allowable purchases, since snack foods such as chips, crackers and cookies, and high sugar beverages such as soda and juice are covered by SNAP benefits. The rationale is that it would be too administratively expensive to restrict SNAP benefits to healthful foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. You can read more about this controversy here, and you can also read the rebuttal from USDA.
SNAP Eligibility
Eligibility is based on household size, assets, income and certain living expenses such as rent, child care, and heating/cooling. There is an eligibility calculator available on-line. If someone is eligible, it will automatically take them to an application form. There are also easier to use, paper applications available for seniors. To explore the MA SNAP web site, go to: http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/consumer/basic-needs/food/snap/
Monica is a 30 year old single mother of two children Manuel and Darby, ages 9 and 12 respectively. All three are US citizens. She is currently living in East Boston with her kids, paying $1200 in rent for a 1 bedroom apartment. She also must pay heating, cooling and electricity, which can run up to $200 a month. Monica works at a local sub shop, earning $500 per week. She is not receiving child support from the father of her children. Using the SNAP eligibility tool, is Monica eligible to receive SNAP benefits? If so, how much?
Wonder what it really costs to eat a healthy diet in Boston? Read more here from Children's Health Watch. [See this link on "The Real Cost of a Healthy Diet in Boston".]