Food stamps – SNAP
For more than 40 years, SNAP has served as the foundation of America鈥檚 national nutrition safety net. It is the first line of defense against hunger and is a powerful tool for improving nutrition among low-income people.
Benefits come to the household via electronic debit cards, known as Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards which can be used in more than 246,000 approved retail stores nationwide to purchase food.
To get SNAP benefits, households must meet certain tests, including resource and income tests:
- Resources
- Income
- Deductions
- Employment Requirements
- Special Rules for Elderly or Disabled
- Immigrant Eligibility
For more details about听eligibility听see听.
Generally, students attending an institution of higher education (i.e., college, university, trade/technical school) more than half-time are only eligible for SNAP听if听they meet an exemption. The institution of higher education determines what is considered 鈥榟alf-time鈥� enrollment. Students who meet an exemption must also meet all other听.
Use these resources to help you apply for Basic Food (SNAP):
- General Information:
- Apply online:听听
- Apply by phone: 1-877-501-2233
WA 2-1-1
2-1-1 is a free confidential community service and your one-stop connection to the local services you need, from utility assistance, food, housing, health, child care, after school programs, elder care, crisis intervention and much more. Dial the three digit number 2-1-1 on your phone or听. If you are outside of Washington or have a problem dialing the number 2-1-1, please dial听1-877-211-9274.
University district food bank
For 32 years, the has helped prevent hunger in northeast Seattle neighborhoods. The food bank operates a walk-in food bank offering food, toiletries, baby formula, diapers and pet food to area residents.
Affordable housing
provides a free website where you can search available housing options in King County, Washington.
YWCA
The counties offers a variety of programs to assist individuals and families overcome poverty, homelessness, violence and discrimination. Services include emergency shelter, affordable housing, economic empowerment, domestic violence support, youth programs, health care access, and much more.
Community health centers
King County help assure better access to health care for people living in King County. The centers offer primary medical and dental care to those who would not otherwise get it.