Programs and services

With proper nutrition, children learn more easily, adults work more productively and seniors are healthier. There are programs to help people buy food, as well as plants and seeds to grow their own food.

Food assistance programs

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps Minnesotans with low incomes get the food they need for sound nutrition and well-balanced meals. Approved participants get a debit card to use to buy food at many stores and farmers markets. In the past, SNAP was known as Food Stamps.

The goal of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - Employment and Training Program (SNAP - E&T) is to help people prepare for and become employed.

The Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) benefit includes a cash grant and food assistance.

The Minnesota Food Assistance Program (MFAP) provides food assistance to noncitizens age 50 or older who do not qualify for SNAP because of their citizenship status.
Help getting food right away
It is a good idea to apply for one of the programs listed above if you struggle to meet your food and nutrition needs on a regular basis. If you need food help right away, you can:
- Apply for SNAP and ask if you are eligible for emergency SNAP food benefits. This is only available to households that meet certain criteria.
- Get help from food shelves, food banks and organizations that offer free meals. To find these in your area:
  
  Visit the Minnesota Hunger Solutions website
  
  Call the Minnesota Food Helpline at 888-711-1151
  
  Check the MinnesotaHelp.info website for a list of emergency food resources.