Applying to Public Benefits
CommonHelp: CommonHelp is the Commonwealth of Virginia’s fast and easy way to apply online for many financial assistance programs. Through the CommonHelp website you can find out what assistance you may be eligible for and submit one application saving you time and effort.
Applying for Public Benefits: You can apply online through CommonHelp or in person at your local department of social services office for the following programs: Child Care Services; Energy Assistance (Cooling, Heating, or Crisis); Financial Assistance Programs; Medicaid; Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (Formerly known as food stamps); Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
You can use the online eligibility screening tool to help determine whether you may be eligible for benefits. Please note, however, that the final decision regarding eligibility must be made by an eligibility worker at your local department of social services.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): SNAP provides food benefits to limited-income families to supplement their grocery budget so they can afford nutritious food essential to health and well-being. The program is administered by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.
How Does SNAP Work? A SNAP account is established for eligible households and automatic deposits are made into the account each month. To access the account, they will also receive an EBT Card, which will debit the account each time eligible food items are purchased. A secret Personal Identification Number (PIN) is required to use the card.
How to Apply: There are two options for applying for SNAP: 1. Screen for eligibility and/or apply online through CommonHelp; or 2. Submit an application manually. Fill out an Application for Benefits Form and return to your local department of social services.
Demystifying SNAP Benefits for College Students: Webinar
The Souper Bowl of Caring – February 2024
As a part of the UVA Community Food Pantry’s broader Souper Bowl of Caring campaign in February 2024, Monica Kelley, the Public Benefits Outreach Manager with the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, shared information about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), including the myths surrounding who can apply and how it works! This workshop is geared toward students who are interested in applying for benefits and others who wish to support students through this process.
Click Here to Watch the Recording!
