Monthly benefits: SNAP, WIC & school meals
Steady help that refills every month — apply directly through your state's official site.
SNAP (food benefits, formerly "food stamps")
SNAP puts money on a card each month for groceries. Applying is free and you never have to pay anyone to help you. Don't rule yourself out — working people, homeowners, car owners, students, seniors and people receiving unemployment all qualify regularly. Apply through your state:
- Pennsylvania: COMPASS (compass.dhs.pa.gov) — apply, upload documents, and track your case 24/7.
- New Jersey: MyNJHelps (mynjhelps.gov) — the application takes about 20–40 minutes. Not sure if you qualify? Screen first at NJHelps.gov.
- Maryland: myMDTHINK (mymdthink.maryland.gov) — Maryland calls it the Food Supplement Program.
- New York: myBenefits (mybenefits.ny.gov). In New York City, use HRA.
- Virginia: CommonHelp (commonhelp.virginia.gov), open 24/7 — or apply by phone at 1-855-635-4370, Mon–Fri 7am–6pm.
- Delaware: Delaware Food Supplement / ASSIST (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Not sure where to start? USDA SNAP state directory lists every state's official office.
WIC (for pregnancy, babies & young children)
WIC supports pregnant people, new parents, infants, and children under 5 with healthy food, formula, and nutrition support. It does not reduce your SNAP — you can have both.
Free school & summer meals for kids
Children can get free breakfast and lunch during the school year, and free meals at many sites in summer — often with no application needed.
Free help filling it out
You don't have to do this alone. Many food pantries have staff who help with SNAP and WIC applications for free. Look for the "SNAP/WIC help" filter on our Find Food page, or dial 211.