SNAP/Food Stamp Assistance
Whether you’re looking for eligibility information, applying, or recertifying for benefits, there are people who can help every step of the way.
SNAP is our nation’s first line of defense against hunger, stretching the monthly food budgets of all who meet program guidelines.
The Nutrition Outreach and Education Program (NOEP) offers free and confidential services to connect hungry New Yorkers with nutrition assistance programs such SNAP. Find an Outreach Coordinator in your community.
For SNAP/Food Stamp assistance, free confidential pre-screenings and questions, please call the number listed below based on what county you live in:
- Chemung County: Mary Laurey, SNAP Outreach Coordinator 607.796.5592 or email
- Broome County: Alison Lorenc 607.723.8313 x827 or email
- Schuyler County: Maggie Zegilla, SNAP Outreach Coordinator 607.873.4831 or email
- Steuben County: Hailee Hillman, 607.329.9359 or email
- Tioga County: Tiffany Beaver, SNAP Outreach Coordinator 607.689.2767 or email
- Tompkins County: Amber Podelec, SNAP Outreach Coordinator 607.272.5062 x21 or email
SNAP/Food Stamp Myths
Myth:
Food Stamps are welfare.
Fact:
The SNAP Program is a nutrition assistance program. It helps low income people buy nutritious foods. It is not welfare.
Myth:
Only unemployed people can get SNAP/Food Stamps.
Fact:
Most people who work at low wage jobs can get SNAP benefits. Many working people use SNAP benefits to help make ends meet.
Myth:
You can’t get Food Stamps if you own a car.
Fact:
The amount of SNAP/Food Stamp benefits depends on household size, income certain expenses. For example, a parent with two children who works full time at $7 per pays $350 in rent could receive $180 in SNAP benefits per month.
Myth:
Other people will know I use SNAP/Food Stamps.
Fact:
Shopping with SNAP benefits is easier now. People who get benefits get an electronic card. You use the benefits by running the card a machine at the grocery store. Other people will not know you use food benefits.
Prepared by a project of Hunger Solutions New York, USDA/FNS, and NYSOTDA. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Help Beyond Food
Call 2-1-1 (or 1-800-346-2211) or visit www.211helpline.org to find a food pantry or one of our programs near you. 2-1-1 is a free and confidential service that helps people across North America find the local resources they need. They are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week!