Important Announcement

!

Due to the federal government shutdown, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will not be funded in Pennsylvania starting November 1, 2025, unless Congress takes immediate action to reopen the government. This means that 2 million Pennsylvanians, including more than 65,000 Montgomery County residents, will not receive funding to supplement their food needs starting in November. If your SNAP benefits are on hold for the month of November, those payments will be back dated once there is a change in the government’s status. You can continue to use any unspent funds from October. For more information, visit the Commonwealth's website.

Do you need CASH for groceries? You may be eligible to participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously called the Food Stamp Program, if you meet any of the following guidelines* (applies to any Pennsylvania community college student):

• Community College Student
• Have a medical condition that prevents you from being employed
• Meet the income eligibility guidelines established by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.
  
  **As of 2025, students in approved degree or certificate programs that prepare them for in demand careers may qualify even if enrolled full-time.

As of January 2018, community college students who meet the required financial income limits and who are enrolled in career-oriented or high-priority occupation programs are also eligible for SNAP.

SNAP provides up to $192 a month to buy food at grocery stories for one person and more money, depending on your household size.

You can apply for SNAP benefits online through COMPASS or visit a local Department of Public Welfare Office.

*Guidelines may change, check the COMPASS site for updates.

CAO Office 1931 New Hope Street Norristown, PA 19401 610-270-3500

CAO Office 24 Robinson Street Pottstown, PA 19464 610-327-4280

You will also need to download and print the SNAP Community College Verification form and provide a copy of your current class schedule to verify your college enrollment. Then have it completed by an advisor or an employee in Montco’s Enrollment Services who can confirm your current enrollment based on your schedule.

SNAP Outreach Coordinator Luis Rodriguez is available to answer any questions and help you complete the application process. You can reach him at 610-277-6363, ext. 140, or the toll-free number 1-877-223-2662, ext. 140.

When you begin to receive SNAP benefits, you also can apply for the KEYS Program for additional supportive services as a Montco college student. For more information, email at [email protected] or call 215-641-6330.

**Eligibility rules and income limits can change. Please check the COMPASS website for the most up to date information.