SNAP - A new name for Food Stamps

The food stamp program (now known as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP) is designed to enable low-income families (with gross income at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty level—about $23,000 for a family of three in 2008) to buy the food they need. In Texas, recipients use the Lone Star Debit Card to access their benefits after eligibility is determined. Many low-income individuals who are eligible for food stamp benefits do not participate. Approximately 15 million people who were eligible for food stamps did not participate in 2004 nationwide. In Texas, only 58 percent of those eligible participate, leaving millions of dollars on the table. Myths and stigma are powerful barriers preventing access to nutrition assistance to those who need it most. We'd like to give you the facts so that you can decide if this program is for you.

Here are some basic facts about Food Stamps in Texas:

The Food Stamp Program helps people with low incomes and resources buy the food they need for good health. Food stamps are given to a single person or family who meets the program’s requirements. HHSC sends a renewal application to a family getting food stamps before the end of each benefit period. Most benefit periods last for 6 months but some can be as short as 1 month or as long as 3 years.

For most adults between the ages of 18 and 50 who do not have a child in the home, food stamp benefits are limited to 3 months in a 3-year period. The benefit period can be longer if the adult works at least 20 hours a week or is in a job or training program. Some people may not have to work to get benefits, such as those who have a disability or are pregnant. HHSC gives food stamp benefits through the Lone Star Card. This is a plastic card that is used like a credit card at the cash register to pay for purchases. Each month, the family’s approved monthly food stamp amount is placed in the card’s account.

Emergency Food Stamps Emergency food stamps are also known as expedited food stamps because the benefits are given faster to those in an emergency situation, such as:

• A family with resources worth $100 or less, and monthly income less than $150.

• A family with resources and monthly income that are less than the most recent monthly expenses for rent/mortgage and utilities.

• A family that includes a migrant or seasonal farm worker who has $100 or less in resources and very little income.

To apply for emergency food stamps, visit a HHSC benefits office or call 2-1-1.

On a personal note, going through the application process can be frustrating. Be prepared for long waits and lots of questions but don't give up. Educate yourself. We've published necessary forms and desk aids to assist you in the process. If your family needs food, your patience will pay off. Just go to:

Resources to help you in Surviving a Lay-Off