Worcester Food Stamps
AN OVERVIEW
For more information about food
stamps, click on the questions below to go to the main Food Stamps page on WorcesterResources.org:
Food stamps are a form of government assistance to help low-income families and individuals in Worcester and other communities buy food. Food stamps can be used to buy almost any food item in any supermarket where you usually shop for food. Worcester families that use food stamps can spend the money they save to help pay their other bills.
Food stamps are for people who buy food and make meals at home. People living in homeless shelters, teen parent homes, and drug and alcohol treatment centers are also eligible. Food stamps are for families with limited income who are U.S. citizens or documented immigrants. Adults who are not exempt must work to qualify for food stamps.
The Food Stamps Eligibility Check is an easy way for you to find out if you are likely to qualify for food stamps. After you answer a few online questions about your family, your living situation, your income, and your expenses, you will see the results of the eligibility check right away, on your computer screen.
The amount of food stamps Worcester families get depends on their household size, income, and expenses. You are expected to spend about 30% of your own income on food. The average monthly food stamps benefit in Massachusetts is about $90 per person.
The Department of Transitional Assistance, 9 Walnut Street, Worcester, MA 01608, 508-767-3100, is in charge of the food stamp program in Worcester. You can also apply online or by mail. There are also several food stamps outreach sites in Worcester with information and applications. When you apply for food stamps, you will need proof of identity, income, assets, and expenses. If you are eligible, you will get food stamps within 30 days.
The DTA will deposit your monthly food stamps benefits in an electronic benefits
transfer (EBT) account. They will send you an EBT card to use at supermarket
checkouts to pay for your food. Whenever you buy food with your card, your
receipt will show the amount of money left in your account.
There are rules that Worcester service providers must follow when taking your application, deciding if you are eligible, and providing you with food stamps. Likewise, there are rules that you must follow when you apply for and use food stamps.
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