Promoting Food Support Participation in Minnesota
There were 388,000 people eligible for the federal Food Support Program (formerly Food Stamps) in 2002, but the participation rate was estimated at just 56 percent.1
Compared to other states, Minnesota’s participation rate is close to the national rate of 54 percent. Other states have participation rates as high as 74 percent (Hawaii) and 81 percent (Oregon).
By providing $75/month on average, the Food Support Program can help families and individuals meet their basic food and nutritional needs, and may help relieve pressure on their household budget.
To promote Food Support Program participation, Minnesota Department of Human Services has developed a campaign to promote the program and dispel myths about food assistance. There is a series of posters and fact sheets on their website to increase participation.
Low-income seniors, individuals, and families with or without children may be eligible for the Food Support Program. Those who receive other types of government assistance, such as Supplemental Security Income, General Assistance, Minnesota Supplemental Aid, childcare assistance, or are participating in the Diversionary Work Program are likely to qualify for the Food Support Program. Others may be eligible if their household assets are less than $2,000 (or $3,000 for people over age 60) and their income falls within the eligibility range for their household size (see table below).
If you think you or someone you know qualifies for Food Support, contact your county human service office or call (651) 296-0190 or (800) 657-3698.
Do you qualify for Food Support? 2 3
| Number of People | Under 60 Years - Monthly Income Before Taxes | 60 Years or Over - Net Monthly Income |
| 1 | $1,009 | $776 |
| 2 | $1,354 | $1,041 |
| 3 | $1,698 | $1,306 |
| 4 | $2,043 | $1,571 |
| 5 | $2,387 | $1,836 |
