The resources listed below provide information about food aid programs like SNAP and WIC, also known as food stamps. SNAP and WIC are federally run programs that provide nutritious food and cash assistance to supplement people’s food needs.
Supplementary Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP is a program run by the government that gives you money every month to buy healthy food at grocery shops, Walmart, and Amazon. Based on the size and income of your family, you may or may not qualify to apply. After you apply to SNAP and get certified, you will receive cash loaded onto a card. The amount of money authorized will be determined by how much of your salary covers your food expenses.
- US residents, citizens, asylees, and victims of severe forms of trafficking can apply. Parents who do not meet these conditions might apply on behalf of their children who fulfill such conditions.
- To see if you qualify based on your income, use the SNAP eligibility calculator at hungersolutionsny.org/snap-benefits-estimator. All you need is information about your income (job payments, social Security, unemployment insurance, etc.) and family costs (rent, utilities, daycare, fees for special needs care, etc.)
- If you qualify for SNAP, learn about the documents you need and steps to apply at hungersolutionsny.org/snap.
- Once you submit your online application, please call 929-273-1872 anytime between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday to complete an interview.
- Upon certification, you will be mailed an EBT (electronic benefit transfer) card that automatically loads with money each month. You can find more about the EBT card at nyc.gov/site/hra/help/ebt-card-services.page
- Follow this handout “Steps to Apply for SNAP in NYC” at cap4kids.org/newyorkcity/files/Steps_to_Apply_for_SNAP_in_NYC.pdf to learn how to effectively apply to SNAP.
Supplementary Nutrition Assistance Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
WIC is a government-run program that provides supplemental nutritious food for pregnant, breastfeeding people, and children under 5. Through WIC, you would receive a “food debit card” with a monthly food allowance that you can use at supermarkets or online retailers like Amazon or Walmart. Medicaid holders may qualify automatically, and income and child age determine eligibility.
- Find out if you qualify at hungersolutionsny.org/find-food-help/wic.
- Remember that requirements for US citizenship or residence do not apply.
- Ask your doctor for a WIC form. This is a critical document for the WIC application.
- Apply to WIC by calling a WIC office. Find an office near your home at signupwic.com or call the Growing Up Healthy Hotline anytime at 1-800-522-5006.
- Attend your scheduled appointment at the WIC office and receive an eWIC card that loads with approved food every month. You might need to return to your WIC office on a frequent basis with your child’s medical records or lab results.
- WIC can also supplement your child’s formula needs with a formula allowance.
Learn more about WIC and approved foods at www.wicstrong.com.
Other Food Benefits
Health Bucks
Health Bucks are coupons that can be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at all NYC farmers markets.
Updated on February 8, 2024.
