Intro
The Jamaica Queens Food Stamp Office is a vital resource for low-income families and individuals in the Queens area of New York City. The office provides access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly referred to as food stamps, which helps eligible recipients purchase food and other essential household items.
The Jamaica Queens Food Stamp Office is part of the New York City Human Resources Administration (HRA) and is responsible for administering the SNAP program in the Queens area. The office is located at 32-20 Northern Boulevard, Queens, NY 11101.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for food stamps in Jamaica Queens, applicants must meet certain requirements. These include:
- Being a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Being a resident of New York State
- Having a valid Social Security number
- Meeting income and resource guidelines
- Having a gross income that is at or below 130% of the federal poverty level
- Having a net income that is at or below 100% of the federal poverty level
Applicants can check their eligibility by using the online screening tool provided by the New York City HRA.
Application Process
To apply for food stamps in Jamaica Queens, applicants can visit the Jamaica Queens Food Stamp Office in person or apply online through the New York City HRA website. Applicants will need to provide documentation, such as:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of citizenship or eligible non-citizen status
- Proof of income
- Proof of resources
- Proof of residency
Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed and a determination will be made regarding eligibility.
Benefits
Once an applicant is determined eligible, they will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used to purchase food and other essential household items at participating retailers.
The benefits of the SNAP program include:
- Ability to purchase food and other essential household items
- Increased food security and access to healthy food options
- Ability to budget and manage food expenses
- Opportunity to participate in nutrition education and cooking classes
Participating Retailers
There are many participating retailers in the Jamaica Queens area that accept EBT cards. Some of these retailers include:
- Supermarkets: Pathmark, ShopRite, and Key Food
- Pharmacies: CVS and Walgreens
- Convenience stores: 7-Eleven and bodega-style stores
- Farmers' markets: Many farmers' markets in the area accept EBT cards
Applicants can use their EBT card to purchase a variety of food and household items, including:
- Fresh produce
- Meat, poultry, and seafood
- Dairy products and eggs
- Bread and baked goods
- Canned and packaged goods
- Household essentials, such as toilet paper and cleaning supplies
Renewal and Recertification
To continue receiving food stamp benefits, recipients must renew and recertify their eligibility on a regular basis. This typically occurs every six months. Recipients will be notified by the Jamaica Queens Food Stamp Office when it is time to renew and recertify.
Recipients can renew and recertify online, by phone, or in person at the Jamaica Queens Food Stamp Office.
Common Questions
Here are some common questions about the Jamaica Queens Food Stamp Office and the SNAP program:
- Q: What is the phone number for the Jamaica Queens Food Stamp Office? A: The phone number is (718) 784-1000.
- Q: What are the hours of operation for the Jamaica Queens Food Stamp Office? A: The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm.
- Q: Can I apply for food stamps online? A: Yes, applicants can apply online through the New York City HRA website.
- Q: How long does it take to process a food stamp application? A: Processing times can vary, but most applications are processed within 30 days.
Additional Resources
Here are some additional resources that may be helpful to applicants and recipients:
- New York City HRA website: www1.nyc.gov/site/hra/index.page
- SNAP program information: www.fns.usda.gov/snap/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap
- Food Bank for New York City: www.foodbanknyc.org
Jamaica Queens Food Stamp Office Image Gallery
If you are in need of food assistance and live in the Jamaica Queens area, we encourage you to visit the Jamaica Queens Food Stamp Office or apply online to see if you are eligible for the SNAP program.