The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), often called food stamps in Ohio, provides crucial support to low-income individuals and families, enabling them to purchase nutritious food. Eligibility for Ohio Food Stamps is based on income and household size. If you qualify for the Ohio Food Assistance Program, you’ll receive an Ohio Direction Card, a debit card specifically designed for grocery purchases. This card functions like a regular debit card and can be used at authorized grocery stores and farmers’ markets throughout Ohio. The primary aim of the program is to combat food insecurity and ensure that all Ohio residents, regardless of their financial situation, have access to healthy meals. This helps families afford staples like bread, milk, fruits, vegetables, and meat.
The Ohio Direction Card allows recipients to shop with dignity and choose the foods that best meet their family’s needs. Benefits are loaded onto the card monthly, and the amount received depends on household size and income. The program is federally funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) but administered at the state level by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
Ohio residents can apply for SNAP benefits online through the Ohio Benefits portal. The application process requires providing information about income, household size, and expenses. Supporting documentation, such as pay stubs and bank statements, might also be necessary. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website provides comprehensive information about eligibility requirements, application procedures, and frequently asked questions related to Ohio food stamps.
The USDA prohibits discrimination in all its programs and services based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability, age, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.
Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities can contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Information about the program can be provided in languages other than English, and accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities who require alternative means of communication (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language) to access program information.
To file a program discrimination complaint, complete Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form. This form is available online at https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf or from any USDA office. You can also call (866) 632-9992 to request the form or file a complaint by writing a letter to USDA. Include your name, address, telephone number, and details of the alleged discriminatory action in your complaint.
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services is an equal opportunity provider and ensures that all eligible individuals have access to the Ohio food stamps program.
Complaints can be submitted by mail to: Food and Nutrition Service, USDA, 1320 Braddock Place, Room 334, Alexandria, VA 22314, by fax to (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442, or by email to [email protected].