Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

• SNAP is the new name for the federal food stamp program. Although SNAP benefits are distributed with federal funds, each state administers the program separately and independently. The income guidelines for this program require lower gross monthly earnings than other Kansas food services. For example, a family of one can earn a maximum of $903; a family of two, $1215; and a family of three, $1,526. Kansas allows an additional $312 in monthly earnings for each additional member of the household. To apply for Kansas SNAP benefits, apply in person at your local Social and Rehabilitation Service (SRS) office, or apply electronically through the SRS Online portal (See Resources). SNAP benefits are loaded onto a benefit debit card that can be used at most grocery stores and some convenience stores.
  
  

Women, Infant, Children (WIC) Nutrition Services

• The Kansas WIC program distributes food vouchers to income-qualified pregnant women and children under the age of five. You can redeem WIC vouchers for foods such as milk, eggs, cheese, peanut butter, cereal, bread, juice, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Infants receive vouchers for formula, jarred baby food, cereal and bananas. Income guidelines for the WIC program allow higher monthly earnings than the SNAP program. For example, a family of one can earn $1,670 per month; a family of two can earn $2,247 per month; and a family of three can earn $2,823 per month. For each additional family member, you can earn up to $577 more per month and still receive WIC benefits if all other eligibility requirements are met. To apply for Kansas WIC, contact your local county WIC office for an appointment (See Resources).
  
  

Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)

• The Kansas Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) provides food shipments to various distribution centers five to six times per year. If you qualify for this program, you must go to the distribution location to pick up your food package. Packages vary, but generally contain foods from all major food groups, such as canned fruits and vegetables, meat, juice, dry beans and pasta. You can apply for this program through your local SRS office. To qualify, a family of one can earn up to $1,174 per month; a family of two can earn $1,579; and a family of three can earn $1,984. For each additional family member, your household can earn up to an extra $406 per month.
  
  

Soup Kitchens and Food Banks

• Kansas food banks and soup kitchens are available for any state resident in need. These programs provide free or low-cost pantry items and meals. Not every location provides both services, and hours of service for each location also vary. If you live in a rural area, check with Kansas United Way to see where the closest food bank or soup kitchen is. You can contact United Way by calling 2-1-1 or visiting the Kansas United Way website (See Resources).