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Food

With the rising cost of food, feeding a family on a budget isn't easy, but there are resources that can help.  Many states also run food banks where you can get food for your family.  Check TN.gov to see what is available in your community and to find out if you need to make an appointment to visit the food bank.  

FEDERAL ASSISTANCE

You can also learn more about all the food assistance programs that may be available to you and your family at How To Get Food Help from the United States Department of Agriculture.

Food is expensive, but you can find tips to help you eat well on a tight budget. For example: 

  • Prepare stews and casseroles to help stretch expensive food items and provide meals for multiple days.
  • Choose fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season. Healthy foods that tend to be reasonably priced and available year-round include apples, bananas, potatoes, carrots, and greens.
  • Buy groceries when you are not hungry or rushed.
  • Avoid convenience foods, such as frozen dinners, pre-cut vegetables, and instant oatmeal--you pay more for convenience.

If you are struggling to put food on the table, consider programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and school meal programs for children.

LOCAL EMERGENCY FOOD PROGRAMS (e.g., food pantries, soup kitchens, food banks, etc.)

FoodPantries.org displays a list of local Food Banks

STATE ASSISTANCE

Dial 711 for DHS Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Programs

Can you get SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), more commonly known as food stamps, provides eligible families with help in purchasing food. Find out if you're eligible and apply for the SNAP program. If you're eligible, you'll receive an electronic benefits card, pre-loaded with your benefits, that you can use as a credit or debit card at the store. Learn more about SNAP.

Applying for SNAP

Emergency SNAP Benefits

Emergency SNAP benefits are also known as expedited SNAP because the benefits are given faster to those in an emergency situation, such as:

  • A family with resources worth $100 or less, and a monthly income less than $150.
  • A family with resources and a monthly income that is less than the most recent monthly expenses for rent/mortgage and utilities.
  • A family that includes a migrant or seasonal farmworker who has $100 or less in resources and very little income.
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Food