Text Size:
Text Size:

Getting Food Help in Virginia

Read this in: Español

Author: Hannah Wyatt

If you need help getting food for yourself or your family, you are not alone. Virginia has several programs that can help. This guide explains what is available and how to get started.

Do you need food right now? 

You can get free groceries today from food banks and pantries. Find a food bank near you.

In the summer, children may be able to get extra help with food:

Programs that help you buy food

SNAP (Food Stamps)

SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Some people call it "food stamps."

SNAP gives you money each month to buy food. You get an EBT card that works like a debit card at grocery stores.

Who can get SNAP:

Many people can get SNAP. You may qualify if you are:

  • A low-income worker
  • Unemployed
  • Homeless
  • Living in a shelter

All U.S. citizens can apply. Some immigrants may qualify. Citizen children of undocumented parents may also qualify.

If you already get TANF, SSI, or General Relief, you may qualify automatically. You do not need to have a kitchen or cooking facilities to get SNAP.

What you can buy with SNAP:

  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Meat, poultry, and fish
  • Dairy products
  • Breads and cereals
  • Snack foods
  • Dried or canned goods
  • Seeds and plants (to grow food)

What can't you buy with SNAP:

  • Beer, wine, or liquor
  • Cigarettes or tobacco
  • Nonfood items like pet foods, soaps, paper products, or household supplies
  • Vitamins, medicines, or supplements
  • Foods or beverages meant to be eaten in the store, unless the restaurant participates in SNAP
  • Prepared hot foods

How much could I get with SNAP?

Use the free Virginia SNAP Calculator to get an estimate in about 2 minutes. The calculator is available in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole. Visit vplc.org/snap-calculator.

The calculator gives you an estimate only. It is not a guarantee, and it does not sign you up for benefits.

How to apply for SNAP:

Legal aid organizations can also help with food benefits questions and applications. They may not always be able to help quickly, but it is worth reaching out. Visit virginialawhelp.org/get-legal-help or call 866-534-5243 to find an office near you.

You do not have to apply alone. Several food banks in Virginia offer free help with SNAP applications.

Legal aid organizations can also help. Visit virginialawhelp.org/get-legal-help or call 866-534-5243.

TANF (Cash Assistance)

TANF stands for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. TANF gives you cash that you can use for food or other needs.

Who can get TANF:

  • Families with low-incomes that have children

How to apply for TANF:

Apply the same way as SNAP:

Other food programs

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

WIC is a nutrition program for low-income women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or recently gave birth, and for children up to age 5. WIC provides nutritious foods and referrals to health care services. Non-citizens may receive WIC. WIC is administered through local Health Departments.

School-Based Food Programs

If you have school-age children, they may qualify for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. Some schools also offer after-school snacks. Many school districts offer these programs during the summer as well.

Child Care Food Program

This program provides food assistance through child care providers, like child care centers and some home-based providers, who participate in the program.

Before you apply: What to keep in mind

What counts as income?

If you are not sure whether something counts as income, bring your documents to your interview. You can also call the CommonHelp helpline at 855-635-4370 and ask.

What if I can't get a document I need?

Tell your caseworker. Your caseworker is required to help you get the documents you need to finish your application.

Can I increase my benefit amount with deductions?

SNAP lets you subtract certain costs from your income when they calculate your benefit. These are called deductions. Taking deductions you qualify for can increase the amount you get. Ask your caseworker what deductions you may be eligible for. You can also learn more at cbpp.org.

What if I'm an immigrant?

When you apply for SNAP, some of your personal information may be shared with other government agencies. Read about Data Privacy for Immigrants to learn more. If you have questions about your situation, call Legal Aid Justice Center at 804-643-1086.

Get help applying

You do not have to apply for benefits alone. 

Your local Social Services office can answer questions and help you apply.

Legal aid organizations can also help with questions and problems related to food benefits. Visit virginialawhelp.org/get-legal-help or call 866-534-5243 to find an office near you.

Common questions

What if I'm not a U.S. citizen? You might still be able to get help. Some programs are available regardless of immigration status. Children can often get benefits even if their parents can't. Read more about resources for immigrants.

What if I speak another language? You can ask for an interpreter when you apply. You can also ask for information in your language.

What if I don't have a home? You can still apply for SNAP and other programs. Not having an address won't stop you from getting help.

What if I work? You might still qualify for SNAP and other programs even if you work. It depends on your income.

What if I have a disability? You might qualify for extra help. Some programs have special rules for people with disabilities.

What if I live in a rural area? All of these programs are available statewide.