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Food Stamps


Food Stamps

The Food Stamp Program is a federal-assistance program that provides help in purchasing food to low- and no-income people and families living in the U.S. Though the program is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, benefits are distributed by the individual U.S. states. States used to use actual paper stamps or certificates that could be used to buy groceries, but now in most parts of the country a card is used, similar to a credit or debit card.

About Food Stamps

Food stamps first originated in 1939. The program was called SNAP, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Within the first 4 years of its existence, this program helped over 20 million people buy food.

In 1964 the first official food stamp program was established and was made permanent with the Food Stamp Act of 1964. Throughout the years changes have been made making the restrictions more detailed on what you can buy and who is eligible. In the 80’s the EBT card was introduced which is like a debit card for food purchases.

This card helped with record keeping and reduced the need for actual paper stamps to purchase food. Also in the 80’s, homeless people were made eligible to receive assistance.

The FSP or Food Stamp Program is now, once again called SNAP. You can contact your local Social Security Office to apply for food stamps.

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