SNAP / Food Stamp Program

Access the Healthy Food You Deserve.

Together, we’re ending hunger and homelessness through compassion and action. Here’s how we help our community thrive:

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Helping individuals and families access healthy, affordable food

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—formerly known as food stamps—provides monthly benefits that help households buy nutritious food. Benefits are issued through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used at grocery stores, convenience stores, and most farmers markets to purchase food, vegetable seeds, and certain plants. With more room in the grocery budget, families can choose a variety of healthy options, including whole grains, proteins, dairy, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

CEO’s SNAP Outreach Program works in partnership with the Department of Public Welfare to increase awareness of SNAP and assist eligible individuals—including those with low or no income, disabilities, and health concerns—with the application process. Our goal is to make applying easier and ensure that households have the support they need to live healthier lives.

Apply for SNAP benefits (food stamps): online at www.compass.state.pa.us or apply by phone by calling (570)-826-0510 or 800-822-0359.

Application assistance is available by phone at (570) 826-0510 ext. 237 or in person at CEO’s Wilkes-Barre office.

Unsure if You Qualify

If you’re not sure whether you qualify for SNAP, call CEO at (570) 826-0510. Each applicant’s situation is reviewed individually, so you may be eligible even if you’re unsure.

Having the following information ready can make the process easier:

Dates of birth for all household members
Social Security numbers
Household income details and proof of income (if applicable)
Household expenses
Housing costs (rent or mortgage)
Medical expenses

Eligibility Guidelines

While some exceptions apply, SNAP eligibility is based on income and resources.

Gross income is your total income before taxes or deductions.
Net income is what remains after allowable deductions such as housing costs, child support, medical expenses for elderly or disabled individuals, or childcare expenses.

Most households must meet both gross and net income limits.
If your household includes someone who is 60 or older or disabled, only the net income limit must be met.
Households where all members receive SSI or TANF do not need to meet income limits.

College students may also qualify if they:

Are eligible for Federal Work Study,
Do not have a meal plan, or
Work at least 20 hours per week.