Navigating Benefits - Food Security

Not knowing where your next meal is coming from can make everything else harder—school, work, and even staying hopeful. For young people, food insecurity is often hidden but deeply affecting, especially during times of transition or instability. The good news is that there are programs and community resources designed to help. Take a moment to prepare yourself with the information below so you can show up as their friend and support partner—ready to offer support without judgment and help them access the food they need to stay well and move forward.

Disclaimer: We strive to keep the information on this page accurate and up to date. However, programs and requirements can change, and we may not always be aware of those changes immediately. If you notice any outdated or incorrect information, or if you have suggestions for additional resources we should include, please reach out to your community's Resources and Opportunities (R&O) manager to make them aware of the changes needed.

We continue to have grocery distribution at Touchpoint threadhours on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month. We also provide dinner to our community each week during threadHours. Please join us!

Thread Food Resource Guide and Food Bank Information

Thread has made a guide for food resources available in Baltimore City. Click the link below for access to our food resource guide. 

Baltimore City Food Resources

Food Banks

A food bank is a place that collects and stores food. The food is then given to people who need help getting enough food to eat. Food banks help people who are struggling to buy food.They serve families, seniors, children, and anyone who has a low income or is in a difficult situation. Listed below are websites to help you find local food banks in your area.

• Feeding America - Feeding America has a search tool that helps you find localfood banks and pantries across the country. You can search by entering your zip code, city, or state.
• AmpleHarvest - AmpleHarvest helps connect people to food pantries in their area.
• Farmer's Markets/ Stores accepting SNAP benefits: Use this SNAP locator to find local farmer's markets and stores that accept SNAP benefits. 

What are SNAP benefits?

SNAP/EBT (Food Stamps)

SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It is a program that helps people buy food if they don’t have enough money. SNAP gives you a card, called an EBT card (Electronic Benefits Transfer), which you can use like a debit card to buy food at most grocery stores.

Is there anything I should know about applying for food assistance? 

You may qualify for food stamp assistance (SNAP) if:

• You are low-income or your income is not enough to buy food. To qualify, you must meet the income threshold based on household size.
• You are a U.S. citizen or a legal immigrant.
• You have a child, are pregnant, are a senior, or have a disability.
• You meet other requirements, such as your household size and monthly expenses.

The amount of food stamps (SNAP benefits) you get depends on:

• Your income. The size of your family. Your living expenses (like rent or utilities). Your state’s rules.

  Important Tips: It may take some time to process your application, so apply as soon as possible if you need help.

• Keep records: Save copies of all documents you submit.
• Report any changes: If your income or living situation changes, let the SNAP office know.

How to Apply for SNAP: Find your local SNAP office: Every state has a SNAP office. You need to apply in the state where you live. Apply online or in person: Many states allow you to apply online, but you can also apply in person or by mail. 

What Should I Bring? 

You likely need to show documents like:

• PROOF OF INCOME
• ID
• PROOF OF RENT AND OTHER EXPENSES
• IMMIGRATION STATUS DOCUMENTS (if applicable)

Your state office will tell you exactly what is needed. Interview: Some states require an interview. It could be by phone or in person. 

Wait for approval: After you apply, the state will decide if you can get SNAP benefits. If approved, you’ll get an EBT card. 

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) 

• What is WIC? WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) is a program that helps pregnant women, new mothers, and young children get healthy food and health help.
• Who Can Get WIC? Pregnant women New mothers (even if breastfeeding) Babies and children under 5 years old You must have low income.
• What Does WIC Give You? Healthy food like milk, eggs, fruits, and cereal. Health help and advice about food and nutrition. Support for breastfeeding mothers.
• Learn More About Applying for WIC: On the website, you can select your state to get information about local WIC offices and how to apply. 

Prepare to bring the following to your WIC appointment: