Food Support
Who is the Food Support program for?
The program is for people and families with low incomes. Households must meet certain requirements and provide information/verification about their financial circumstances, including their assets and income. To learn if you may be eligible for Food Support access the Web site(s) below.
How do I know if I qualify for the program?
To see if you might qualify, there are a few questions you can answer by using these tools:
• For seniors (60+)
• For families and single adults
How do I apply for Food Support?
To get an application and/or more information about the application process, contact our office. You will also need to be interviewed and provide proof of your income, housing costs and assets.
How long does it take after I apply to know if I qualify?
It depends on your situation. For some emergency situations, benefits can be issued within 24 hours. In most situations, the county will notify you of a decision within 30 days.
How are Food Support benefits received?
Food Support benefits are distributed through a plastic card that looks like a credit or debit card. It is called an Electronic Benefits card, or EBT card. Every month, the card is filled up with the money to buy food at places that accept Food Support, such as grocery stores. The card is swiped and a code number entered (called a PIN or Personal Identification Number). The PIN helps keep benefits safe if the card is ever lost or stolen. The cost of food is subtracted from the amount of money on the card.
If I get Food Support, how much money will I get each month?
It depends on income, expenses and the number of people in the household. The average amount is $80 for each person each month. The more people in the family, the more money they may get to buy food.
What foods are eligible for purchase through the Food Support Program?
| Households can use food support benefits to buy: |
Households cannot use food support benefits to buy: |
Foods to eat, such as:
Bread and cereal
Fruit and vegetables
Meat, fish and poultry; and
Dairy products |
Any nonfood items, such as:
Pet food
Soap, paper products; and
Household supplies |
| Seeds and plants which produce food to eat |
Beer, wine, cigarettes or tobacco |
| Seniors can also use their cards at some Meals on Wheels and at senior dining sites (also called "congregate dining") |
Vitamins and medicines |
| |
Food that will be eaten in the store |
| |
Hot foods |
What do I do if my Food Support benefits card (EBT card) is lost or stolen?
• Call 1-888-997-2227 to report your card lost or stolen so it can be cancelled.
• Come to our office between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., with picture identification, to get a new card.
Do I have to use all my Food Support benefits up in the month I receive them?
No, however, if your benefits are not accessed for a long period of time they may be removed from your card. If this happens, call your Food Support worker for assistance.
Are there other food and nutrition programs I might qualify for?
WIC (Women, Infants and Children) is a nutrition education program that provides free supplemental foods which promote food health
Nutrition Program for Seniors
County food shelves provide food and personal care products at no cost to people in need
The free or reduced price school lunch program is available for families meeting certain income qualifications. An application for this program can be obtained through your child's school.
How do I contact you for more information about Food Support or to apply for benefits?
Stillwater Service Center
14949 62nd Street North
Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
(651) 430-6455
Cottage Grove Service Center
13000 Ravine Parkway South
Cottage Grove, Minnesota 55016
(651) 430-4159
Woodbury Service Center
2150 Radio Drive
Woodbury, Minnesota 55125
(651)275-8650
Forest Lake Service Center
19955 Forest Road North
Forest Lake, Minnesota 55025
(651) 275-7260
Directions to our offices: Washington County Offices
