Patchogue, NY - January 10th, 2014 - Despite recent cuts at the federal level, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is still a vital resource to those who face hunger on Long Island. Unfortunately, many individuals in need of support are uninformed about the application process and program qualifications. Island Harvest Food Bank, Long Island’s largest hunger relief organization, will be offering free SNAP application assistance at the Patchogue-Medford Library on Tuesday, January 14, 2014 from 12:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m.
“All too often, families and individuals are not receiving adequate assistance simply because they are unaware how to apply or if they qualify for the SNAP program,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, Island Harvest president and CEO. “A family should not have to choose between paying medical bills and putting food on the table. The goal of this program is to help guide people through the application process and ensure those who qualify are receiving the aid they need.”
The free SNAP application assistance is open to any individual who believes he/she is eligible for the program. Trained staff members will walk applicants through the process. Attendees are required to bring proof of identity for all household members, household income for the past month, address, and expenses, such as rent, mortgage and utilities. In addition, families with daycare costs and those over 60 who incur out-of-pocket medical expenses should bring proof of these items as well. Interested participants should call 1-877-926-8300 to reserve an appointment. Those who are unable to attend should call Island Harvest at (516) 805-1642 or email snap@islandharvest.org.
About Island Harvest
Long Island’s largest hunger relief organization, Island Harvest Food Bank provides food and non-food items for people who are hungry and in need, giving them a voice to help them transition from uncertainty to stability. Island Harvest’s mission is to end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island through efficient food and product collection and distribution systems; enhanced hunger awareness and nutrition education programs, job training, targeted services for specific populations, and outreach and advocacy activities and initiatives. Island Harvest is the region’s lead agency in emergency response readiness for food and product distribution and support and is a member of Feeding America, the nation’s leading domestic hunger-relief charity. For more information visit www.islandharvest.org.