Food insecurity is more than not having enough food. It’s not being able to access food how and when you need it. Using all the tools at your disposal is the first step to making sure your family is fed. Federal assistance programs like FNS/SNAP and WIC let users shop for the foods they need at stores in their neighborhoods.

• FNS (or SNAP – Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is a program that helps eligible people supplement their budgets to purchase food. The supplement is given on an EBT card, which works like a debit card. You can use the funds at most stores, just look for signs that indicate they accept SNAP/EBT.

• WIC (or The Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) aims to ensure the health of eligible pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women; infants, and children up to age 5 by providing healthy foods, breastfeeding support, nutrition education, & community referrals.

You’re able to learn more and apply for both benefits here.