Guidance for Families
Food Help
FREE PRODUCE DISTRIBUTIONS, FOOD SHELVES AND COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Use the Hunger Solutions Find Help Map to determine the best program for you.
On the Find Help Map, you will enter your ZIP code and make other choices that apply to you. A custom list and map will appear.
Some food shelves require appointments or are subject to schedule changes due to weather, staffing or volunteer capacity.
We encourage you to call ahead to to verify the program hours and location before you make the trip.
EBT Edge
A service to locate retail stores that accept SNAP.
EBT Edge allows you to set language preferences, view deposit and transaction history. You may also check your balance on your EBT card using EBT Edge.
If it is your first time using this service, you will need to create an account with username and password.
If you already have SNAP Benefits, take advantage of the Market Bucks Program. The program matches SNAP-EBT spending dollar-for-dollar (up to $10) at participating farmers’ markets across Minnesota. There are 4 easy steps to using SNAP-EBT at the farmers’ market:
- Go to the Information Booth at the farmers’ market.
- Swipe your EBT card for the amount you want to spend. Your purchase will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $10.
- Get $10* in free Market Bucks, and $10* free in Produce Market Bucks.
- Shop for up to $30 of SNAP-eligible food and produce at the farmer’s market.
*Up to $10 per market visit. You do not have to spend the full $10 each time.
You can also use SNAP and Market Bucks to make purchases at Fare for All, which offers deeply discounted food in bulk. Check their current schedule to learn when they will be in your community.
Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
FDPIR provides USDA Foods to income-eligible households living on Indian reservations and to Native American households residing in designated areas near reservations.
From June to December each year, 20 of its clinics identify patients who may be a good fit for this produce distribution program. Enrollment begins each April at the clinics.
Minnesota Family Investment Program
The state’s welfare reform program for low-income families with children. MFIP helps families move to work. Apply here.
Replacement EBT Cards
Call the Minnesota Department of Human Services customer service: 888-997-2227. Replacement cards will be mailed to you by the department and are typically received within 5 days.
SNAP Assistance
If you want to apply for SNAP online and DO NOT need assistance, apply with the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
You can also call Second Harvest Heartland at 651-209-7963 or use its eligibility screening tool.
WIC
To apply for WIC you can also call 1-800-942-4030 to contact your local office or visit the Minnesota Department of Health.
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Cerebral Palsy Guide is a national support organization dedicated to educating individuals and their families about cerebral palsy and other developmental disabilities. Find answers and guidance for assistance to help improve overall quality of life.
Federally Funded Meal Programs provides details on these programs through the Minnesota Department of Education web site.
Free/Reduced Price School Meal Form
It is important for families to complete the Application for Educational Benefits, which determine how much funding your child’s school receives for educational programs and supports.
Eligible families can qualify for other benefits, such as: WIC, the Metro Transit Assistance Program, FCC Affordable Connectivity Program/Reduced price internet programs, some summer camps, athletic programs and/or childcare centers offering scholarships or discounts. Call your school to enroll.
Medical Assistance Medicare can help you with your required annual health insurance renewal. Avoid losing your health insurance by being prepared for your renewal.
United Way 2-1-1 provides free and confidential health and human services information for those in MInnesota.