(Posted 2024 September)
What does it feel like to be hungry? A few hours of being hungry might not be that bad, especially when you know a good meal will satisfy you eventually. A few days, weeks, or even months of being hungry is a different story. Not being able to buy enough food to provide proper nutrition, sufficient calories, or enough meals a day has widespread effects on health and quality of life. Hunger is more widespread in Fairfax County than you might suspect. It’s estimated that over 90,000 people in the county struggle to consistently buy enough food to feed themselves and their families1.
September is Hunger Action Month and the Department of Family Services is spotlighting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Formerly known as food stamps, SNAP provides money to purchase food to ensure children and families, individuals, and older adults have nutritious meals to stay healthy. Currently, about 5% of the County’s population participate in SNAP – that’s over 60,000 people!
Sometimes people question why families would need SNAP when there are food pantries across the county. SNAP offers some unique benefits to recipients beyond the financial assistance:
- SNAP gives agency and choice to participants. SNAP participants receive a monthly benefit amount on an EBT card, which they can use like a debit card at local grocery stores and farmers markets. People can choose convenient locations close to home or work, or stores that carry culturally specific food.
- The EBT card can also be used to order groceries online (although it does not pay for delivery fees). This can be a helpful option for older adults or anyone with transportation or mobility challenges.
- SNAP provides a consistent amount each month, allowing recipients to plan their grocery budget and allocate their dollars in a way that works best for them.
- Participating in SNAP opens the door to additional employment and training assistance through the SNAPET program. SNAP recipients who are looking for employment can receive career coaching, workforce development opportunities, and job search support.
We know there are more individuals and families who could benefit from SNAP, but we need your help reaching them. Help us spread awareness and combat stigma around this essential nutrition program. Use our Community Engagement Toolkit to spread the word with social media messages, engaging graphics, and more!
If you think you may be eligible for SNAP, you can check online at CommonHelp or by contacting Public Assistance and Employment Services in the Department of Family Services at DFSMyCase@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-324-7500, TTY 711.
This posting is part of the Department of Family Services' Community Corner where you’ll find timely information about upcoming events, parenting and wellness tips, programs and services, and more! Share these helpful posts with your friends and family. Don't miss out on future postings! Sign up today!