My child usually receives free or reduced-price meals at school. Where can I get food assistance for my child?

Schools and sponsors throughout the state are providing meals through the Unanticipated School Closure Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) to all children at no cost. Providing these meals has been deemed an essential service and will continue through the duration of school closure, despite “stay home” orders. You may find locations providing meals at www.michigan.gov/meetupeatup.

Additionally, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act established a Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) system to provide assistance to families with school-aged children who participate in free or reduced-price meals. Beginning in April, families may receive EBT benefits for the value of free meals a student would receive at school. These benefits may be used to purchase food in retail locations.

 

I receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program/Food Assistance Program benefits. Will I receive any additional food assistance?

Yes. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act established a Coronavirus Response Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or CR-SNAP, which allows states to provide additional benefits to SNAP households that do not currently receive the maximum benefit for the duration of the federally declared public health emergency. People who receive food assistance can check their benefits balance on their Michigan Bridge Card by going online to www.michigan.gov/mibridges or by contacting a consumer service representative toll-free at 888-678-8914.

 

My business has closed or I have been laid off during the pandemic. Will my food assistance benefits be limited as a result?

No. Time-limit restrictions on able-bodied adults without dependents have been suspended for the duration of the crisis.

 

I receive or have applied for benefits through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Will I be required to go into a WIC office to fulfill my required nutrition education, bloodwork, etc. in order to receive my benefits?

No. In order to meet the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations on social distancing, states may temporarily waive requirements for in-person visits for WIC participants.