What are SNAP Benefits?

Imelda Galdamez<galdamez@msu.edu>, Michigan State University Extension -

MSU Extension offers free programming to qualifying participants to help them shop for healthy meals, on a budget.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formally known as the food stamps program, is a federal program that provides nutritional assistance to low income individuals and families to purchase food. Households must meet the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) SNAP Eligibility Requirements to be considered for the program. In the state of Michigan, the Department of Human Services oversees the SNAP program and may be known as the Food Assistance Program.

 How can SNAP help?

SNAP is intended to help Americans in times of emergency and economic challenges. If elected for the program, SNAP recipients receive their benefits via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) debit card and may make food purchases at participating food vendors that are licensed to accept SNAP benefit payments. In addition, SNAP participants are able to purchase fruits and vegetables from their local SNAP eligible Farmers Markets. To find an eligible farmers market, please visit the Michigan Farmers Market Association homepage.

How can Michigan State University Extension help?

MSU Extension believes in the importance of nutrition education. MSU Extension offers SNAP education (SNAP-Ed) to adults who are eligible and/or are receiving SNAP benefits. The program helps individuals improve their health by teaching them how to select, plan and prepare budget friendly, nutritious meals in relationship to physical activity, how to stretch food dollars and how to keep foods safe for consumption. The fun, interactive nutrition programs are available throughout the state of Michigan and are free of charge. Yes, free of charge!

If you feel you may be eligible and have specific questions related to the SNAP assistance program, contact your local Department of Human Services office. MSU Extension offers various educational programs for adults, families and children that focus on lifestyle changes to promote healthy eating.

To read this article in Spanish read ¿Cuáles son los beneficios de SNAP?

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https://extension.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https://extension.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

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