WESTMINSTER — Winter is a time when many households living with lower incomes are particularly hard-pressed to meet their food expenses, given the added burden of heating costs. Some cut down on the food they consume, or buy cheaper, less nutritious food as a means to cope with these added expenses. But good nutrition is essential for good health in all seasons.
Southeastern Vermont Community Action (SEVCA) can help Windham and Windsor county residents who are struggling get help with their food costs through 3SquaresVT.
3SquaresVT is Vermont's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, designed to help households without sufficient resources meet their need for healthy, nutritious food. The program helps eligible households stretch their food budgets and put three square meals a day on the table, at the same time freeing up money for other basic living expenses.
Whether they are experiencing a short-term financial crisis or longer-term challenges, 3SquaresVT helps seniors, families, and individuals with lower incomes make ends meet. Monthly benefits come on a debit card accepted at many grocery stores and farmers' markets, making it easy for households to use them.
SEVCA's Family Services staff are available to assist households to apply for 3SquaresVT. Many Vermonters are eligible for the program and don't know it, so SEVCA encourages any family having trouble meeting their food expenses to contact them.
Eligibility and the amount of assistance provided is based primarily on household income, expenses, and household size. The program is open to individuals, families with or without children, seniors, and people with disabilities. There are special rules that make it easier for households that include a senior or a person with a disability to receive benefits.
3SquaresVT also helps the local economy by bringing federal dollars to the state, encouraging local spending, and helping to support businesses and farmers in the community.