Food Assistance for Women

Many women around the country experience financial difficulties. The prices of groceries continue to increase, yet people are not making more money in order to counter the additional fees. Due to these money shortages, many women find it difficult to purchase the groceries they need. This can be an even bigger challenge if they have dependent children that they care for. The good news is that there is food assistance for women. All women have to do is reach out for the help.

Types of Food Assistance for Women

There are programs around the country that strive to help women obtain the food they need feed themselves and their families. These programs are provided through the government, as well as through nonprofit organizations, and church-affiliated groups. While there are strict eligibility requirements for food assistance for women through government programs, opportunities through nonprofit organizations tend to be less strict. They typically provide free food assistance, in the form of boxes of food and free hot meals, to those who say they need the assistance.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – SNAP used to be called the food stamp program. The name was changed to counter any negative stigma that came from the term “food stamps.” The program is government funded and provides those who qualify with a grant each month that is used to purchase food. This is the largest food assistance program in the country. When it comes to food assistance for women, SNAP is hard to beat. The program helps women, especially those with dependent children, to obtain the food they need each month.

Those approved for SNAP will receive a debit-style card that can be used at grocery stores, and some farmers markets, around the country in order to pay for your food. Some food is not covered under the program, such as prepared hot foods, vitamins, and alcohol. The eligibility requirements for SNAP include meeting the low income requirements, and being a citizen or legal immigrant. To apply, contact your local SNAP office.

Women, Infant & Children (WIC) – The WIC program is federally funded and is specifically for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or who have dependent children under the ages of five. Women also have to meet the low income requirements in order to qualify for the benefits. Those who are approved for the program will receive a grant each month that can be used to purchase healthy foods from the grocery store or participating farmers markets. To apply for this food assistance for women you will need to contact your local WIC office. You will set an appointment to be evaluated for the program and apply.

Food Banks – There are many food banks, or food pantries, around the country. They are run by nonprofit organizations and church-affiliated programs. They provide food assistance for women and are open to helping a wide range of people, without usually having a strict application process. The food banks will typically provide those in need with boxes of free food, as well as the ability to obtain daily hot meals. Some of the food banks run soup kitchens, where those in need of food assistance can stop in for a free meal each day. You can use the map to locate a food bank near you, and then contact them to see what food assistance for women is offered, and how you can go about receiving it.

Popular Nonprofit Organizations – There are several organizations around the country that offer food assistance for women. The programs are geared toward helping to meet the needs of those who are very low income or experiencing a short term financial hardship. The popular nonprofits that offer these assistance programs include Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, and United Way. Additionally, the American Red Cross will provide food assistance for women if there has been an emergency situation or natural disaster. The organizations have locations around the country. Contact the one closest to you to inquire about food assistance for women.

You may also find smaller organizations in your local area that will provide food assistance for women. Contact each of the programs to see what help you can get. You can apply for more than one program. Also, the food assistance does not need to be paid back at any time.