More college students eligible for SNAP benefits through pandemic exemptions
March 15, 2021AWC students can also receive food and necessities through Andale’s Food Pantry
Yuma, AZ (March 15, 2021) – College students who were not previously eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) may now qualify thanks to additional flexibilities put in place by a new COVID relief bill.
The Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act (HR 133) made it possible for approximately six million additional college students to use SNAP (formerly known as food stamps), to purchase groceries and have a nutritious diet.
Students may be eligible for SNAP funds if they are enrolled at a higher education institution at least half-time and if they do not receive financial assistance from their families to pay for tuition. Students must also have an income under 185 percent of the federal poverty level, which is less than $23,206 per year, or $1,967 per month for an individual.
Students have an opportunity to qualify for up to $234 a month in SNAP benefits. Those with spouses and/or children may receive more. Students need to meet all other SNAP eligibility rules to receive funds.
Visit azfoodbanks.org/college to learn more and apply.
Students enrolled at Arizona Western College can also receive non-perishable food items and basic necessities from Andale’s Food Pantry. This service is designed to meet the immediate needs of students and their families.
Andale’s Food Pantry is located in the Educational Services (ES) Building in Room 101 at the AWC Yuma Campus, 2020 S. Ave. 8E, and has limited hours throughout the semester. Students can set up an appointment to visit the pantry by applying for services online or by emailing Shara Skinner, AWC Coordinator of Student Leadership and Activities, at Shara.Skinner@azwestern.edu.
“Given the circumstances that students have had to adapt to during the past year and a half, this is the perfect time for programs to readjust their resources to meet the needs of students. I am so proud to promote new ways in which our students will receive relief for their growing needs, and I hope they take advantage of these opportunities,” said Skinner.
To help fill the pantry’s shelves, community members can donate canned/boxed food, clothes, and toiletries to the Campus Life or AWC Foundation offices, which are both located in the 3C Building. Those interested in giving can also do so monetarily. Visit azwestern.edu/student-life/food-pantry for more information about the program and on how to give.
Contact:
Shara Skinner
Coordinator of Student Leadership and Activities
Arizona Western College
Shara.Skinner@azwestern.edu
(928) 344-7581