Hidden Benefits of SNAP: More Than Just Food Assistance
How the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Offers Extra Perks for Low-Income Families
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the largest anti-hunger initiative in the United States, serving over 40 million people each month—more than 12% of the population—with an average monthly benefit of $187.20, typically used for groceries.
But beyond this basic benefit, there are additional perks that many recipients may not know about—perks that can make a significant difference in their daily lives.
Extra SNAP Benefits: Health, Home, and Tech Support
According to Go Banking Rates, in some states, SNAP participants are automatically enrolled in programs like the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP), which offers financial rewards when purchasing fresh produce from farmers’ markets. For example, in Massachusetts, recipients earn an extra dollar for every dollar spent on local produce, with a monthly cap ranging between $40 and $80 depending on family size. This incentive encourages families to eat healthier while supporting local farmers.
Another lesser-known feature is that SNAP benefits can be used to purchase edible seeds and seedlings, including herbs and spices, allowing families to grow their own food in home or community gardens. This option is both cost-effective and healthy, promoting greater food independence.
Enrollment in SNAP may also qualify families for additional support from programs like the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps cover gas and electricity bills. Recipients can also receive monthly discounts of up to $9.25 on internet or phone services through the Lifeline Program, as well as assistance in purchasing devices like laptops or smartphones in certain states.
SNAP’s Hidden Perks: Beyond Food Assistance
Additionally, the “Museums for All” program grants free or discounted access to over 1,500 museums nationwide, as well as zoos, aquariums, botanical gardens, and art exhibitions, providing educational and recreational opportunities at affordable prices.
These hidden benefits demonstrate that SNAP is more than just a food card—it’s a gateway to a wide network of services that ease daily burdens and enhance the quality of life for low-income families. As discussions continue about the program’s future, these extra perks highlight its importance as a comprehensive tool for supporting the most vulnerable communities in the United States.