SNAP – Food Assistance

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Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP – also known as food stamps, EBT, food assistance, etc) helps eligible low-income Ohioans stretch their food budgets and buy healthy food.  These funds are distributed electronically to a card that is similar to a debit card. SNAP is temporarily expanding student qualifications to allow more students to afford monthly groceries.

Did you know that 3 in 5 students may experience basic needs insecurity, and food insecurity affected 44% of students at two-year institutions and 38% of students at four-year institutions? The Pandemic has made survival become a distinct reality and if this is something you experience, rest assured you are not unlike 44% of your peers.  Visit the links to the left to see how you can take advantage of SNAP benefits which will help alleviate the burden of wondering where you might get your next meal.

  • Who qualifies for SNAP?
    • If your gross income is below 130% of the national poverty level, you will likely be eligible for SNAP.
  • Are college students eligible for SNAP? 
    • Yes! In fact, SNAP has temporarily expanded some eligibility to allow for more students to take advantage of these benefits.  So, if you fill out your FAFSA and find that you:
      • Are eligible to participate in state or federally financed work study during the regular school year, or
      • Have an expected family contribution (EFC) of $0 in the current academic year,
    • You should move on to the next step!
  • What are SNAP eligibility criteria?
    • To get SNAP benefits, you must apply in the county of the state in which you currently live and must meet certain requirements.
  • What is a SNAP Household?
    • A SNAP Household consists of individuals who live together in the same residence and who purchase and prepare food together and eat a majority of meals together.
  • What documents do I need from Rhodes for SNAP?
    • Simple! Rhodes has a document that will address everything you need to show you qualify for SNAP benefits. This document will come from Financial Aid. 
  • Do I need to complete the FAFSA in order to get SNAP?
  • What can SNAP buy?
    • You can use SNAP to buy most fresh, canned, and frozen food items, like fruits and vegetables, meat, dairy, eggs, dry goods, and seeds to grow your own food.
    • You can’t use SNAP to buy hot prepared foods, toiletries, diapers, alcohol and tobacco, or other non-food items.
    • Click here to find a complete list of approved items that are eligible for purchase 
  • How do I enroll for SNAP benefits?
    • You will want to visit the link under the county you live in!

For more frequently ask questions regarding the SNAP Program, click on this link.

  • Enroll by following this link and selecting the state you currently reside in.
    • For example, Ohio residences you can apply online by clicking “Online Application.” To find your local office to apply in person click “State List of Local Office Locations.”
  • You may apply for food assistance online at Benefits.Ohio.gov, or by filling out the “Request for Cash, Food and Medical Assistance” (JFS 7200) form and submitting it to your county department of job and family services. You can get it at your county agency or at odjfs.state.oh.us/forms/inter.asp. You can find the address and phone number of your county agency at jfs.ohio.gov/County or by calling 1-866-635-3748. (Follow the phone prompts for food assistance.) You also may file the application through your local Ohio Benefit Bank site. The Ohio Benefit Bank helps low- and moderate-income Ohioans apply for work supports such as tax credits and public benefits. You can find the site nearest you and get more information at ohiobenefits.org.

Steps to Take

  1. Verify that you meet the gross income qualifications

    1. Gross income is what you make before taxes are taken out

    2. Net income is what you make after taxes

  2. Ask for a Verification Letter from Rhodes. Email Financial Aid at finaid@rhodesstate.edu
    1. *You must email Financial Aid from your Rhodes student email
  3. Reach out to your Job and Family Services of the county you reside in