Food and Energy Assistance Programs

Food Stamps (SNAP)

The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture provides funds to all states for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.) If an individual’s income and assets are under a certain amount, they can apply to their state public welfare agency for food stamps. Each month, they will obtain a certain value of food stamps that they can use to purchase food and some other items. In Massachusetts, SNAP is administered by the Dept. of Transitional Assistance.

Food pantries and other food distribution programs

Many communities, through local churches, food pantries, and other charities, provide free food distribution to individuals and families who cannot afford the cost of food. Local community action agencies or Project Bread’s Foodsource Hotline can provide information about such food distribution networks within specific areas.

The Meals on Wheels program delivers hot meals to people age 60 and above who are homebound or disabled.

Heating assistance

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps low-income individuals pay their heating bills. Eligibility is based on income and the program is both for homeowners and renters. The fuel assistance program is administered through local community action programs.