Virginia Western is committed to the overall success of our students and that goes beyond academics. We know that our students sometimes face challenges to their success as a student – not having enough money for food, inadequate house, mental health struggles, and more. It is our goal to connect you with the resources that you need to thrive so that you can be successful in the classroom too! One helpful resource is government benefits, including the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).
SNAP
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides funds that can be used to purchase nutritious food for you and your family at grocery stores, farmer’s markets, and large retail stores. Historically to qualify, individuals needed to be employed, working at least 80 hours per month, and meet the designated income requirements. Currently, there is a temporary waiver in place that has expanded eligibility for even more students to qualify through the end of the Coronavirus Public Health Emergency.
To apply, please fill out the Common Help application online. If you need help completing the application, please reach out to us for assistance. To learn more about SNAP, please visit: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/snap.cgi. If you want, you can also complete a quick questionnaire to see what SNAP or other benefits you might qualify for via Single Stop.
Applying for Other Government Benefits
Virginia’s Common Help application allows you to apply for other government benefits: TANF (financial assistance for families), Medicaid (health insurance), childcare and more. Apply here: https://www.commonhelp.virginia.gov. If you need assistance with completing the common help application, please contact us. You can also complete a quick questionnaire to see what benefits you might qualify for via Single Stop.
Austin Pryor (he/him)
Coordinator of Retention & Student Success
(540) 857-6660 | apryor@virginiawestern.edu
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