There is a monthly newsletter we receive through our connection with the Healthy Pantry Initiative partnership with FeedingPA and the Pennsylvania Department of Health. I would like to share some information from the August newsletter about Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and also highlight some helpful information on the DHS website, pa.gov/agencies/dhs/resources/snap.

In July 2025, Republicans in Congress passed a bill that will change programs run by DHS. President Donald Trump signed that bill into law.

The law makes changes to Medicaid and SNAP in the future. DHS is waiting for information on how states must implement these changes. Your benefits have not changed at this time and will not change without notice from DHS. You will have the opportunity to update your case information.

Be on the lookout for more information from DHS. Keep your address and other contact information up to date with DHS and the U.S. Postal Service.

There are resources that are available about SNAP benefits and how families will be impacted by the changes in the bill that just passed in July. Local county assistance offices can also help individuals who need to apply in person or have questions. Information by county is also found at pa.gov by searching county assistance offices-Department of Human Services-Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Did you know SNAP is available for college students? DHS encourages every Pennsylvanian experiencing food insecurity to apply for SNAP, including students.

A lot of students enrolled in postsecondary education programs are not financially privileged. In fact, a 2021 report from the HOPE Center at Temple University recently found that 39% of students at two-year schools and 29% of students at four-year schools experience food insecurity.

SNAP can provide extra support that ensures you will be able to buy groceries and not have to choose between a meal and a tuition bill. This line of support can make a big difference in being able to afford your education and stay nourished.

SNAP is an entitlement program, meaning if you receive SNAP, you are not taking benefits away from “someone who needs it more.” Everyone who is found eligible always receives the full benefit they are entitled to by law.

Students can get SNAP as long as they meet all SNAP eligibility requirements, including the income limits. Your financial aid and/or work-study earnings are not counted. If you are 21 or younger and live at home with your parent(s), their income must be considered when determining your eligibility. More eligibility requirements and exemptions are explained at pa.gov.

There are several ways to apply for SNAP, and you can apply even if you are not sure if you are eligible. Apply for or renew your SNAP benefits online using compass.dhs.pa.gov. Print the application, fill it out, and return it to your county assistance office.

You can get an application at your county assistance office or download an application using the pa.gov website. Applications are available in six languages. If you need help completing the application form or need more information about benefits, you can call your local county assistance office.

If you are approved for SNAP benefits, you will receive a Pennsylvania Access Card and a PIN, which works just like a debit card. Then, you can use your SNAP benefits at various retail locations, including many common grocery stores. Use these resources to help yourself and your family.

Editor’s note: This column was written by Jenn Dietz, Healthy Pantry Initiative chair and pantry comanager.