SNAP, previously known as the Food Stamp Program (FSP), is federally funded state-distributed assistance that helps low-income households buy the food they need for good health. More information about SNAP can be found here (in Maryland, SNAP is referred to as FSP–either name means the same program!).
Most students ages 18 through 49 who are enrolled in college or other institutions of higher education at least half time are not eligible for food stamps. However, students may be able to get SNAP benefits if otherwise eligible if they:
- get cash assistance benefits under a TCA program;
- take part in a State or federally financed work study program;
- work at least 20 hours a week (no averaging);
- are taking care of a dependent household member under the age of 6;
- are taking care of a dependent household member over the age of 5 but under 12 and do not have adequate child care to enable them to attend school and work a minimum of 20 hours, or to take part in a State or federally financed work study program; or
- are a single parent in school full-time with a child under 12; or
- are assigned to or placed in a college or certain other schools through:
- a program under the Work Force Investment Act,
- a program under Section 236 of the Trade Act of 1974,
- an employment and training program under the Food Stamp Act, or
- an employment and training program operated by a State or local government.
- are receiving disability and receiving SSI, SSA or VA disability payments, or
- have a disability verified by a doctor or licensed psychologist.
If you are a UMBC student struggling to afford groceries, and you meet any of these requirements, head to https://mydhrbenefits.dhr.state.md.us/dashboardClient/#/home to create an account and complete an application.
If you have more questions, or want to talk to someone before calling DHS, you can call Maryland Hunger Solutions, a nonprofit working to get all eligible SNAP recipients in Maryland to enroll in the program, toll free at 866-821-5552!