North Carolina consistently ranks in the top 10 states rated as the most food insecure in the nation. In 2019 prior to Covid, the national food insecurity rate was 10.9% compared to 13.5% in North Carolina. Davie County’s overall rate for the same time period was 13.6%, while the food insecurity rate for children in Davie County was 18.1%. These numbers are projected to increase as a result of the pandemic.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a national food assistance program that helps millions of households access the food they need to be healthy. In North Carolina, the program is called Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). SNAP/FNS provides households with a monthly allotment of benefits that can be used to purchase most food items including meats (fresh, frozen, deli), fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, canned), dairy, bread/grains, and seeds and plants to grow your own food.
More in My Basket (MIMB) is a free NC State Extension program that helps individuals determine eligibility and complete the FNS/SNAP application. Simply call the MIMB office toll-free at 1-855-240-1451, or visit morefood.org. Assistance is available in English or Spanish. Applications are also available online through the NC Government ePass service at epass.nc.gov. Completed applications are submitted to your county’s Social Service Department.
SNAP/FNS benefits are distributed on an Electronic Benefits Card (EBT), which can be used just like a debit card. Benefits are automatically loaded onto the card each month, and the money rolls over month to month. Purchases made with an EBT are not charged sales tax.
FNS/SNAP eligibility is primarily based on income, and the limits vary by household size. So, a larger household can have a higher income and still qualify. Individuals that reside together and purchase/prepare food together are considered a household. Spouses and individuals under 22 living with a parent must participate as one household.
In North Carolina, you may be able to qualify even if you own your home, car, land, property; or have a retirement account or money in the bank. Individuals that are 60 and older or disabled can deduct monthly medical expenses that are over $35 to help meet the required net income limit. There is no cap on medical expenses, which can include basic care, medication, equipment, insurance, services, and transportation/lodging. Proof of eligible medical expenses, such as medical bills or prescription receipts, must be provided.
