The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is an essential resource that helps individuals and families afford food, but its impact goes beyond just groceries. SNAP provides financial relief, connects people with additional benefits, and strengthens the local food system. When more people can access and use SNAP, our entire community benefits.
Here are some things you should know about SNAP:
SNAP is more than just money for food.
SNAP provides monthly funds to help buy groceries, but it also offers additional benefits that can help stretch a household budget. These include:
- Free nutrition education classes and resources to help families make healthy choices.
- Discounts on utility bills to help lower household expenses.
- Free school meals for children in qualifying households.
- Reduced admission to museums and cultural sites across Massachusetts, making activities more accessible to families.
These added benefits help families save money and access more resources that support their overall well-being.
SNAP makes healthy food more affordable.
The Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) gives SNAP users extra money when they buy fresh fruits and vegetables from participating vendors. This helps to stretch food budgets and directly supports our local farms.
At Daily Table’s Salem location, people who use SNAP get 50% off fresh fruits and vegetables (up to $5 per day) and half off skim/non-fat and 1% milk. This makes it easier to choose healthier options.
SNAP can be used in more places than many people realize.
SNAP benefits can be used at more than just grocery stores. Other locations that accept SNAP include:
- Convenience stores and gas stations
- Some pharmacies
- Farmers’ markets and local co-ops
- Select online retailers
Convenient access to food is essential, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those without reliable transportation. SNAP allows people to shop at locations that best fit their needs.
Applying for SNAP takes about 20 minutes.
Many people who qualify for SNAP do not apply because they assume the process is complicated. In reality, completing an application typically takes about 20 minutes, and assistance is available for those who need help understanding if they are eligible.
5. The Salem Pantry can help with SNAP
The Salem Pantry is an official SNAP outreach partner with the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA). Our trained staff can help people apply, renew their benefits, and check their eligibility right at The Market.
When more people can access SNAP, it strengthens our entire community and supports The Salem Pantry’s mission to ensure everyone has reliable access to the food they need.
SNAP benefits are shaped by federal policies and budget decisions. Eligibility requirements and benefit amounts could change under the new administration. The Salem Pantry actively tracks these changes and encourages anyone who could benefit to apply
If you think you may qualify for SNAP, want to learn more, or need help applying, visit our SNAP page to make an appointment with us today.