Over 90,000 people in Fairfax County experience hunger or food insecurity, an increase from the previous year (Feeding America). As costs for food, housing, and other goods and services continue to rise in northern Virginia, Fairfax County provides access to essential programs to ensure all individuals and families can thrive and no one goes hungry.

Wait – what do we mean by hunger or food insecurity? 

Food insecurity is commonly described as “being unable to afford balanced meals, cutting the size of meals, or being hungry because of too little money for food.” (USDA report, 2022)

Experiencing hunger does not mean the household will never be able to afford food without assistance. The amount of money individuals and families have available to purchase food can change for lots of different reasons, and sometimes change quickly without notice. 

Hunger can have serious effects on physical and mental health, relationships, and household stability. 

No one deserves to go hungry. During Hunger Action Month 2024, join us as we spotlight how to access food assistance and fight hunger in Fairfax County. Many people don’t know how widespread this critical issue is in our community, so help spread the word with our community engagement toolkit. 

Of the many food resources available in Fairfax County, one of the most widely utilized is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Formerly known as food stamps, SNAP provides food benefits to help purchase groceries to ensure children and families have nutritious meals to stay healthy. 

In Fairfax County, over 60,000 residents (~5% of the county’s population) participate in SNAP, but even more are eligible. 

Quick Facts About SNAP:

• You can apply online, by phone, by mail, or in-person. Most people apply online or by phone. Spanish translation is available for all options. If you need assistance with a language other than English, contact the Enterprise Call Center at 1-833-522-5582.
• Participants receive SNAP funds on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to purchase eligible grocery items through authorized retailers and some local farmers markets. Learn which farmers’ markets even match SNAP dollars spent on produce so your dollars go farther!
• You can use your EBT card in-store or online for delivery at select retailers. Ordering grocery delivery online can make purchasing food more convenient and accessible for those with transportation or mobility challenges. 
• 3 out of 5 older adults who qualify for SNAP are missing out. Older adults may have eligible medical expenses that would increase their monthly SNAP benefit. Our Human Service Workers can talk you through the application to determine if you may qualify. 
• Children may be eligible for SNAP even if their parents are not. Only U.S. citizens, green-card holders, and certain other immigrants are eligible for SNAP. So even if you are not eligible, others in your family may be eligible to receive benefits. To apply for eligible family members, mark yourself as a "non-applicant" on forms.
• Keep your EBT card secure. Like any debit card, scammers target EBT cards to steal SNAP funds. Keep your PIN secret and change it frequently. Check your EBT account regularly and know your balance, so you can quickly identify unusual activity. 
• It’s better to renew, not reapply! If you are a SNAP participant, ensure your address and phone number are up to date with Fairfax County and renew your application each year to remain eligible for SNAP benefits. 
• SNAP participants have access to employment and job training assistance through the SNAPET program. SNAPET provides a wide range of supportive services, coaching, and education and skills training.

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.

Some individuals and families are not eligible for SNAP, but still need assistance purchasing or accessing food.