For Immediate Release
The Salem Pantry Expands Food Access with Free SNAP Enrollment Assistance
Salem, MA (March 4, 2025) – The Salem Pantry is strengthening its commitment to food access by offering free Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) enrollment assistance. As an official SNAP outreach partner of the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA), The Salem Pantry provides personalized support to help individuals and families navigate the application process and secure benefits.
With the rising cost of groceries, SNAP plays a critical role in ensuring food security for households across Massachusetts. The Salem Pantry’s trained staff offer one-on-one assistance in English and Spanish, making the process easier and more accessible.
“The process of applying for SNAP benefits can feel overwhelming, and we want to remove as many barriers as possible,” said Ranfy Chavez Rosa, SNAP Outreach Coordinator at The Salem Pantry. “We are proud to provide support to ensure more of our neighbors have access to the program.”
SNAP benefits can be used at a wide range of vendors, including grocery stores and farmers’ markets, giving recipients more access to fresh, healthy food. In addition to monthly food assistance, SNAP recipients may also qualify for extra benefits such as free nutrition education classes and resources, utility discounts, free school meals, and discounted admission to many museums and cultural institutions across Massachusetts.
According to The Greater Boston Food Bank’s 2024 statewide report on Food Equity and Access in Massachusetts, 82% of food-insecure households rely on SNAP benefits each month, and 59% of those families also use a food pantry. Both SNAP and food pantries play vital roles in the food safety net.
The Salem Pantry encourages anyone interested in learning more about their eligibility to reach out for assistance.
For more information or to schedule an appointment for SNAP enrollment support, visit thesalempantry.org/snap or email SNAP Outreach Coordinator Ranfy Chavez Rosa at [email protected].
About The Salem Pantry
The Salem Pantry named the 2024 Greater Boston Food Bank Community Partner of the Year, is transforming the North Shore’s food system by providing fresh, free, and healthy food through The Market, mobile pantries, home delivery, and a dynamic food distribution hub. It serves 20% of Salem households, distributes over 400,000 pounds of food monthly, and helps 20 community organizations bring food directly to their communities. By combining direct service with collaborative partnerships, The Salem Pantry ensures convenient and equitable access to nutritious food throughout the region.