Hattiesburg Ms Food Stamp Office Information And Locations

Located in the heart of Mississippi, Hattiesburg is a city that offers a unique blend of Southern charm and small-town hospitality. However, like many cities across the United States, Hattiesburg is not immune to food insecurity and poverty. According to the United States Census Bureau, approximately 22% of the population in Hattiesburg lives below the poverty line. To combat this issue, the Mississippi Department of Human Services offers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps.

For those in need of food assistance, finding the nearest food stamp office can be a daunting task. In this article, we will provide you with comprehensive information about the Hattiesburg MS food stamp office, including locations, hours of operation, and contact information.

What is SNAP?

SNAP, also known as food stamps, is a program designed to help low-income individuals and families purchase food. The program is administered by the Mississippi Department of Human Services and is funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). SNAP benefits are distributed electronically through the Mississippi EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card, which can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers.

Eligibility for SNAP

To be eligible for SNAP, applicants must meet certain requirements, including:

• Being a resident of Mississippi
• Meeting income and resource requirements
• Having a valid Social Security number
• Being a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen

Applicants can check their eligibility and apply for SNAP online through the Mississippi Department of Human Services website or by visiting their local food stamp office.

Hattiesburg MS Food Stamp Office Locations

There are two food stamp offices located in Hattiesburg, MS:

1. Forrest County Department of Human Services Address: 748 Oak Grove Rd, Hattiesburg, MS 39402 Phone: (601) 554-6464 Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
2. Lamar County Department of Human Services Address: 105 Central Ave, Hattiesburg, MS 39401 Phone: (601) 794-4011 Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

What to Expect When Visiting the Food Stamp Office

When visiting the food stamp office, applicants can expect to:

• Complete an application for SNAP benefits
• Provide required documentation, such as proof of income and residency
• Participate in an interview with a caseworker to determine eligibility
• Receive information about the SNAP program and how to use benefits

How to Apply for SNAP

Applicants can apply for SNAP online through the Mississippi Department of Human Services website or by visiting their local food stamp office. To apply online, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Mississippi Department of Human Services website at www.mdhs.ms.gov.
2. Click on the "Apply for Benefits" tab.
3. Select "SNAP" as the program you are applying for.
4. Complete the online application and submit required documentation.
5. Wait for a caseworker to contact you for an interview.

SNAP Benefits and How to Use Them

SNAP benefits are distributed electronically through the Mississippi EBT card. Benefits can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers, including grocery stores, farmers' markets, and some restaurants. When shopping with SNAP benefits, follow these steps:

1. Find an authorized retailer that accepts SNAP benefits.
2. Swipe your EBT card at checkout.
3. Enter your PIN number to authorize the transaction.
4. The retailer will deduct the purchase amount from your SNAP balance.

Gallery of Hattiesburg MS Food Stamp Office Information And Locations

Hattiesburg MS Food Stamp Office Information And Locations

We hope this article has provided you with valuable information about the Hattiesburg MS food stamp office and the SNAP program. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to comment below.