snap benefits

Are you struggling to afford your groceries every month? You may be eligible for SNAP benefits! The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps PA residents buy nutritious food even if they are of lower income. Students may qualify for $250/month! Check out the video to see a more in depth explanation of how college students may be able to get their SNAP benefits.

SNAP Screener

Who may qualify:

  • Students eligible for federal work study
  • Students with a Student Aid Index (formerly the Expected Family Contribution) of $0 in the current academic year
  • Students with children
  • Students with a disability

Applying individually:

If you are aged 22 or older and live with your parents, but buy and prepare more than half your food separately

If you live with roommates but buy and prepare more than half of your food 

Applying as a household:

Students under the age of 22 that are living with their parents, or students living with roommates that share food buying responsibilities may apply as a household. Households need to meet income guidelines for their household size (see below).

A household is measured by how many people an applicant will be buying and preparing food for.

How to apply:

Fill out an application here

If you live in Philadelphia, Bucks, or Chester Counties, you may receive help filling out your application over the phone – fill out a pre-screening form here or call 215-430-0556  

Income Guidelines

SNAP Income Guidelines 2022-23

Watch the SNAP 101 video

Additional community resources:

Salvation Army

"The Community Meal program serves dinner Sunday through Thursday and Saturdays (except the 2nd Saturday of each month) at 5:00 PM in our dining room here at 101 E. Market Street. It is a hot meal including a main dish, sides and dessert. Breakfast is served Monday through Thursday at 7:00 AM. All are welcome to attend." 

Address: 101 E. Market Street West Chester, PA 19382

Phone: 610-696-8746 

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Safe Harbor

This agency provides a free, hot lunch daily to low income individuals and families. Walk-ins are welcome.

Address: 20 N. Matlack Street West Chester, PA 19380

Phone: 610-692-6550 | Email: Shelter@SafeHarborofGWC.Org

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ACT in Faith

Here you can receive groceries, toiletries, and other household supplies.

Address: 212 S. High St West Chester, PA 19382

Phone: 484-324-8492 | Email: contact@actinfaithgwc.org

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West Chester Food Cupboard

This agency provides groceries and toiletries. You will need to provide proof of residency (within Chester County). Contact the Resource Pantry if you need a letter of verification.

Address: 431 S. Bolmar Street West Chester, PA 19382

Phone: 610-344-3175 | Email: wcfood@gmail.com

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Church of Holy Trinity

Receive a free, nutritious dinner every Friday evening from 4:00-8:00 PM. You may eat in or take out. Walk-ins are welcome.

Address: 212 S High St West Chester PA 19382

Phone: 610-696-4640

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