Author: admin

By Carey Skelton MS MPH RDN CDN/ Nutrition & Wellness Coordinator

SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is a federal program that provides money for groceries on a debit-like card.  With today’s prices at grocery store, we can use all the help we can get to eat nutritious foods.  While these program funds are only to supplement your current grocery budget, there are tips to stretch your SNAP benefits further!

First, are you eligible?  About 50% of older adults in Chautauqua County who are eligible for SNAP have not yet applied!  Under federal law, household size and all income are counted to determine eligibility. “Income” is defined as both earned income such as wages and unearned income such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and veterans, disability, and death benefits.  However, there are special rules for older adult households.  A household with older adults may qualify for more relaxed income limits up to 200% of the federal poverty level. Additionally, federal poverty levels are updated annually.  So, if you applied for SNAP in the past and didn’t qualify, it’s always good practice to check the annual updated levels.   Your benefit allotment is determined based on a few calculations and can range between $23/month and $298/month for a household size of one.   

Even if you receive the minimum SNAP benefits each month, this can be a big help to your food budget.  It’s important to note: 

• Your benefits roll over for up to one year.  So, if you are hosting Christmas dinner at your house, minimum SNAP benefits saved over 6 months ($138) could make this feasible! 
• Farmers Markets and some stores participate in programs like Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB)!  This doubles the quantity of fresh produce you can purchase.  So instead of using your $23 on staples, get $46 worth of food when you purchase fresh produce! 
• Your benefit allotment changes if you have had a change in your income or deductions. While you are required to reapply annually, it’s important to know that you can request a recertification if you have had a change that might increase your monthly benefits.       

By making simple and healthy choices on a daily basis, you will be well on your way towards achieving total wellness.  We know the healthy choice is not always the easiest choice, but small changes can make a big difference.  Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services offers Nutrition & Wellness programs to support you in your journey toward total wellness.  If you think you might be eligible or want more information on SNAP, just call us at our NY Connects line at 716-753-4582.

Also, check out our website at chqgov.com/office-aging to see all the programs and services offered.  If you are not already signed up for our communication system, we can provide you with information about our programs and services at your fingertips.  We send messages about the current programs you may be interested in through your preferred communication method: text, email, or an automated call. 

Some of these materials have been funded in whole or in part by grants from the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA), and/ or the Administration on Aging (AOA) and/ or Administration for Community Living (ACL). Nothing herein is intended, nor should be construed, as an endorsement by the State of New York.