Holly and her three children appreciated the monthly benefit payments that promptly arrived in Holly’s bank account every month. But her Supplemental Security Income (SSI) dollars only go so far. Holly sometimes found it difficult to pay her bills and provide the nutrition her young family needed. She learned that the Social Security Administration (“Social Security”) that provided her SSI benefits also could steer her toward nutrition assistance programs.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP was formerly known as ‘food stamps.’ People who receive SNAP benefits generally receive an electronic card that operates just like a debit card. Households have to meet certain income limits to qualify to receive SNAP.
If you or someone in your household already receive SSI benefits, you can apply for SNAP through your Social Security Office.
Special Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
As the name implies, this program provides nutrition assistance to women with low incomes. Children from birth to age five considered to be at nutritional risk also may qualify for WIC benefits. Combined with other benefits, WIC can help families get the supplemental foods and nutritional education they need.
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)
Low-income people who are at least 60 years old can supplement their diets through this program. The CSFP program also distributes food to other groups concerned with feeding people.
Again, Social Security does not manage this program. It is entirely possible that people receiving SSI benefits may qualify for CSFP. If you have trouble getting the nutrition you need, contact a local California agency to ask about CSFP.
Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)
Unlike some other nutrition assistance programs, CACFP pays money directly to care centers that provide meals and snacks to children, functionally impaired adults, and older adults.
National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP)
Federally-funded programs may provide free or reduced-price meals to children living in low-income households.
Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)
Families with school-age children often struggle to buy meals and snacks during the summer months. This program provides free food to fill the gap.
Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
This program also does not give food or money directly to needy individuals. Instead, SFMNP provides grants to states and some Native American tribal governments that give food coupons to low-income senior citizens.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)
States manage this program through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Supplies are sent to food banks that then handle distribution to people who need nutrition assistance. Programs offering assistance through TEFAP focus on people in some geographical regions with incomes that meet their guidelines.
You May Qualify for Nutrition Assistance Programs, along with Disability Benefits
At The Law Offices of Martin Taller, your case receives the attention and care of experienced Social Security Disability attorneys. For your free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100. We are located in Anaheim, but we assist clients throughout Southern California.
