FOOD STAMPS

The Food Stamp Program (FS) was established under the Food Stamp Act of 1964 and 1977. The program is administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) under federal law. In New York State the program is administered by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance under Section 95 and 29 of the Social Services Law.

The purpose of the Food Stamp Program is to reduce hunger and malnutrition among the members of low income households. Examples of low income households who may be eligible for Food Stamps are: the unemployed; persons working for low wages or part-time; the elderly or disabled on fixed incomes, and persons on Public Assistance or other assistance programs. It may take up to 30 days to receive your food stamps.

Food Stamps can only be used to buy food items, plants and seeds to grow food. They cannot be used to purchase pet food, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, paper products soap, ready to eat hot foods or vitamins. Eligible clients receive their Food Stamps at specified grocery stores chosen by New York State Department of Social Services. Home bound clients can have an authorized representative purchase food. Under certain circumstances food stamps can be used in designated restaurants to purchase meals.

The Food Stamp Program is a 100% federally funded program.

Expedited Food Stamps can be issued within five calendar days to cover specific emergency situations. A client does not need to be out of food to qualify.

Employable persons between the ages of 16 and 60 will be required to participate in a job search program. Clients will be required to produce 24 job searches in an eight week period once every twelve months. Unemployed single individuals and unemployed married couples without children are also required to complete 20 hours in Client Work Experience Program (CWEP) each week. Failure to comply may result in sanctions.

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