Food stamps, food pantries, community kitchens, and other resources can help you and your family and are available throughout New York City.
Food Stamps
The Food Stamp Program (also known as the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program) is a critical work support, which provides food assistance for nearly 1.8 million low-income New Yorkers including families, the elderly and the disabled. The primary goal of the program is to help families supplement the cost of their diet with nutritious foods. New York City encourages using food stamp benefits to make healthier choices by purchasing fruits, vegetables and other nutritious items. By using a debit card, you can spend your food stamps and help stretch your dollars. Food Stamps can be used at many locations, including supermarkets, most farmers markets, and some Green Carts.
Many people don't know they are eligible for food stamps. The only way to know is to apply. You can own your own home or car, have money saved, or be an immigrant and still be eligible for food stamps. Each application is evaluated on an individual basis and qualifying is based on income.
If you are eligible for Food Stamps, you will receive them within 30 days. In some cases, emergency benefits can be issued sooner.
Applying Is Easy
You can also file an application for food stamps at a community organization in your neighborhood. A staff of experts is available to assist you with submitting your application, as well as the necessary documents. You can also ask for a telephone interview with HRA to complete the process at the time of your visit. Then, you can stop by your local Food Stamp office to quickly confirm your identity. Call 311 to find out where you can locate non-profits and community based organizations in all five boroughs that can help you with your application.
Households applying for Cash Assistance at a Job Center have their Food Stamp application taken at the same time.
For certain households receiving Social Security Income and are unable to travel by public transportation, the Social Security Income Food Stamp Center can process their applications by mail.
You or other employable household members may be required to participate in the Food Stamp Employment and Training Program. Job searches will be stressed and training may be made available.
In accordance with Federal Law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political belief, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Emergency Food Assistance Program
The New York City Emergency Food Assistance Program helps to supply food to more than 550 food pantries and community kitchens throughout the City.
If you need food immediately, call 311. The 311 representative will tell you where you can go, no matter where you are. There are locations throughout the five boroughs.
Health Bucks
Health Bucks, worth $2 each, can be used to purchase fresh fruits & vegetables at participating farmers markets. If you use food stamps, you will receive a Health Bucks for every $5 you spend at the farmers market. Click here to find out where you can find and use Health Bucks. Learn more about the Health Bucks program. Visit the Health Bucks page on the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s website.
