<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=4B5VEL_1GyJMNT600" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=4B5VEL_1GyJMNT600" width="995" height="1200" ></figure>You’ve just walked into your apartment back from a vacation, bags in each hand, hauling your stuff up three flights of stairs. Then, you realize you have to go back to your car and go to the grocery store. But the added stress of where you are going to shop creeps in because you need to be able to afford the groceries you purchase.For many college students, one resource that can help is SNAP/EBT. SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is a U.S. government assistance program that helps eligible low-income individuals and households purchase groceries using an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Stephen March, a worker at the Oregon Department of Human Services in Benton County, explained that SNAP is income-based, meaning applicants have to provide proof of the level of income they are receiving. Another basic eligibility requirement for SNAP benefits is citizenship or lawful residency status. March said that while U.S. citizenship is not always required, some non-citizens may need to meet additional residency guidelines before qualifying. The application process can be completed online, by phone, in person, or by mail. After applying, applicants complete an interview and submit documents such as identification and proof of income. “It can never hurt to apply, even if you’re not sure, even if you’re someone who is working maybe part time or something and you’re not sure, definitely apply to see if you’re eligible,” said March. SNAP can cover a wide variety of groceries from many retailers with over 250,000 locations throughout the nation accepting it as a form of payment. SNAP can cover all cold groceries, but it cannot cover hot or prepared items. “It could cover a rotisserie chicken at a store, but it can’t cover one that was in the hot food area, but if they let it cool down and they stuck it in their deli, then it could be covered,” said March. For Bridgette Blatner, a fourth year at Oregon State University studying architectural engineering, SNAP has been part of her life since high school. Blatner said her family first began using SNAP after her mother lost her job. She said having EBT has helped reduce some financial stress because it gives her a clearer sense of what she can spend on groceries. “They can be weird sometimes, if you have a job they won’t always give you EBT. Like, I’m using financial aid and taking out loans to pay for my college, but if your parents are paying for your college, they might not grant you EBT because you’re more financially stable,” said Blatner.Blatner said that when applying for SNAP benefits, there can be challenges and confusion students may face in regards to qualifications. Right next to OSU’s campus is the First Alternative Co-op North Store where many students purchase groceries. For Blatner, she said that EBT provides her the funds to shop there and wants to support local businesses whenever she can. “I like to go to the Co-op because it’s super local and if I had the money to support a small business like that I would spend my money there, but I don’t have money to spend there, so I use my EBT.” Although SNAP can be a useful resource, Blatner said using EBT can sometimes feel uncomfortable in public. “Honestly, back when I got it, I thought it was awesome, cause I had no idea what it was and I’m like, ‘Oh hey, the government is giving me and my mom money,’ but sometimes if I decide to use it at the Superette I feel embarrassed, or like if I’m in my super puff and I go to Fred Meyers.”For students that have to balance tuition, rent, and everyday expenses, SNAP/EBT provides financial help and an outlet for students to use.The process to apply may seem intimidating and overwhelming at first, but as Stephen March emphasized, “It can never hurt to apply.” </div></body>

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You’ve just walked into your apartment back from a vacation, bags in each hand, hauling your stuff up three flights of stairs. Then, you realize you have to go back to your car and go to the grocery store. But the added stress of where you are going to shop creeps in because you need to be able to afford the groceries you purchase.

How SNAP helps students manage grocery costs

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You’ve just walked into your apartment back from a vacation, bags in each hand, hauling your stuff up three flights of stairs. Then, you realize you have t

How SNAP helps students manage grocery costs

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