Food Assistance - SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

ARE YOU AGE 60 OR OLDER AND NEED HELP WITH FOOD COSTS?

The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas, Inc. is pleased to announce an exciting new project. If you reside in Pinellas or Pasco counties, you may now apply for food assistance over the telephone from the comfort of your own home.

WHO IS OFFERING THIS ASSISTANCE AND WHY?

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formally known as Food Stamps in Florida) is offering a new telephone-application option, to make it easier for elders in the community to apply for SNAP benefits. SNAP is a nutrition-assistance program, not a welfare program. In addition to stretching your food budget, your SNAP food purchases help the local economy by increasing community spending. SNAP eligibility is based on income and expenses. If you think you may be eligible for SNAP and meet the criteria below, contact us for assistance with the completing the application

WHO QUALIFIES FOR ASSISTANCE WITH A TELEPHONE APPLICATION?

• Are you 60 years of age or older?
• Do you reside in Pinellas or Pasco County?
• Are you a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen?

HOW DO I APPLY BY PHONE?

Call 1-800-96-ELDER (800-963-5337) to arrange for a SNAP operator to telephone you & take your application.

The operator will ask for information regarding:

• Income statements: Social Security payments, Veteran's Administration benefits, pensions, income from mortgages, contributions and earnings.
• Information about your assets.
• Proof that you are a Florida resident (for example, your Driver's License).
• Social Security number

PLEASE NOTE: While the Area Agency on Aging is taking telephone applications, eligibility for SNAP benefits is determined by the Florida Department of Children & Families (DCF).

Applying for SNAP is a snap!

If you wish to apply for SNAP benefits by obtaining a paper application, call the Department of Children and Families (DCF) at 1-866-762-2237 or visit a DCF ACCESS Florida Customer Service Center. A list of Customer Service Centers can be found online at http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/ess/ Or you may apply online at http://www.myflorida.com/accessflorida/.

Find local retailers who accept SNAP benefits on the US Department of Agriculture website at:  http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/