SNAP

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federally funded program that aims to provide nutritious and healthy foods to low-income households. SNAP benefits are loaded onto a benefit card which allows families to discretely use SNAP to pay for food products from most grocery retailers. In Connecticut, about 400,000 residents receive SNAP benefits. Families who are eligible for SNAP benefits may also qualify for other services offered by local Community Action Agencies, including Home Energy Assistance, Head Start, Case Management Services, and WIC.

Click here to view our USDA/FNS Non-Discrimination & Credit Funding Statements.

For more information or to apply, call Alliance for Community Empowerment at:

(203) 366-8241

FAQs

  • What is SNAP?

    SNAP provides nutritional support to low-income people. If eligible, SNAP benefits can help families afford a nutritionally adequate diet. SNAP benefits are not cash. SNAP benefits are provided on an electronic card that is used like an ATM or bank card to buy food at most grocery stores.

  • How can SNAP help me?

    With the help of SNAP benefits, less money will be needed to spend on food.
    The SNAP card can be used to buy food at most major grocery stores, select convenience stores, and even some farmers’ markets. SNAP benefits can help you improve the nutritional content of your meals. To see what foods you can and cannot buy with SNAP go to: www.fns.usda.gov/snap/eligible-food-items

  • Do I qualify for SNAP benefits?

    If and how much SNAP benefits you qualify for depends on:

    • Your household’s income
    • Allowable deductions to your household’s income (examples include monthly shelter expenses, medical expenses, and court ordered child support)
    • Your household size
    • At least 5 years U.S. residency for qualified non-citizens

  • Am I Eligible?

    Households must meet both the gross and net income limits to be eligible for SNAP benefits. To see if you might be eligible for SNAP benefits, go to https://portal.ct.gov/DSS/SNAP/Supplemental-Nutrition-Assistance-Program—SNAP/Eligibility

  • How do I apply for SNAP benefits?

    You can apply for SNAP benefits by completing a State application form. Go to https://www.connect.ct.gov/access/jsp/access/Home.jsp and either print the form or apply online, or call Alliance for Community Empowerment at (203) 366-8241.

  • What will I need to provide?

    • Identification (such as driver’s license or other acceptable identification)
    • Social Security numbers for every applicant
    • Proof of income
    • Non-citizens will need to show proof of the legal immigrant status of household members applying for SNAP.

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