Putting food on the table shouldn’t be a daily struggle. The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) connects individuals and families with programs that make healthy meals more affordable and accessible. Through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT), farmers market discounts and the Virginia Restaurant Meals Program, we work with local partners to stretch your food dollars and ensure no Virginian goes hungry. Whether you’re applying for the first time or looking for ways to make your benefits go further, this page guides you to the right resources and support.
Apply for SNAP online through CommonHelp or contact your local Department of Social Services to request a paper application.
SNAP helps lower-income individuals and families buy healthy food. Benefits are loaded onto an EBT card and can be used like a debit card at authorized stores.
EBT is the card system used to spend SNAP benefits. Cardholders swipe their EBT card and enter their PIN at checkout.
Using SNAP at farmers markets is simple and it stretches your dollars. The Virginia Fresh Match program lets you buy fruits and vegetables for half price at participating markets.
SNAP works with local departments of social services and community partners to make applying easier and support families along the way.
If you are elderly, experiencing homelessness or living with a disability, you may be able to use your EBT card to buy prepared meals at participating restaurants.
This summer grocery benefit helps families stretch food dollars with $120 per eligible child, loaded on an EBT or SUN Bucks card.
Seven regional food banks serve communities across Virginia. Explore the map to find the food bank near you, then connect online, by phone or by entering your zip code to get support.
The Federation of Virginia Food Banks serves nearly 1,100 partner agencies and distribution sites statewide.
Donate food at your local food bank.
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