NC College Food Benefits is a statewide campaign by the Carolina Hunger Initiative — supported by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service, the NC Department of Health and Human Services, and other partners.
Our goal is to increase awareness of and participation in federal food benefits for college students.
Who runs this site?
This site is managed by the Carolina Hunger Initiative, a program based at the UNC-Chapel Hill Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention.
Our work on this project is funded by the USDA SNAP Outreach program, in partnership with the NC Department of Health and Human Services.
What is SNAP/FNS?
SNAP, the largest federal nutrition program in the US, is administered by the US Department of Agriculture and provides monthly benefits to purchase food. In NC, SNAP is administered by the NC Department of Health and Human Services and referred to as Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) or SNAP/FNS.
SNAP/FNS was formerly known as food stamps. Participants receive an EBT card they can use at many grocery stores, convenience stores, and even farmers’ markets. A set amount is added each month to the card. It works a lot like a debit card.
Who is this site for?
College students in North Carolina can find information on this site to help them determine if they are eligible for SNAP/FNS food assistance and prepare to apply. On this site, “college students” refers to anyone enrolled in higher education, including both undergraduate and graduate students. You cannot apply directly for SNAP/FNS through this site.
College staff and other partners in North Carolina can find information on this site about the importance of linking students to food resources like SNAP/FNS, and guides to making connections happen with ease.
Why was this campaign created?
Students can’t succeed without proper nutrition.
2 out of 3 college students who are eligible for SNAP/FNS food assistance aren’t participating in the program. This outreach campaign was created to make it easier for college students in North Carolina to connect with SNAP/FNS resources.
Are you eligible?
