SNAP (Food)
SNAP (formerly called Food Support or Food Stamps) is a county-administered, Federal program that assists people with low incomes to purchase food to better meet their nutritional needs. The program is not intended to supply all of a person's food needs. It is intended as a supplement to help them achieve and/or maintain their independence.
The program issues SNAP benefits through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) which is similar to a debit card. Each month, recipient's EBT accounts are credited with their benefits. During the month, recipients use their cards to purchase food. The EBT card is swiped through a point-of-sale terminal and the purchases are deducted from the account balance. SNAP benefits can be used to buy food or plants and seeds to grow food. They can also be used at authorized sites for Meals On Wheels and Congregate Dining sites.
Eligibility is based on the household's income. The amount of monthly benefits is based on income and the number of people in the household.
You will need to complete an application form and contact the agency to schedule a telephone or in-person interview. You may also call the SNAP hotline at 651-431-4050 in the Twin Cities metro area or 800-657-3698 outside the metro area.