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SNAP Benefits

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Wondering if you are eligible? Try out this SNAP calculator.

What is SNAP?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides monthly benefits towards grocery assistance. Students attending CWU are eligible for SNAP benefits if they fit into one of the following criteria: 

  • Are under age 18 or are age 50 or older.
  • Work at least 20 hours a week.
  • Participate in Work Study.
  • Care for a child under the age of 6.
  • Care for a child age 6 to 11 and lack the necessary child care enabling you to attend school and work 20 hours a week or participate in work study.
  • Are a single parent enrolled full-time in college and taking care of a child under 12.
  • Receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) assistance.

Funding amount and acceptance is determined by DSHS. For more information visit Students | Food and Nutrition Service (usda.gov). 

Not a Washington resident? Apply for the Food Assistance Program. The program provides food benefits for those who are not eligible for SNAP benefits due to residency/immigration status. 

Have questions? Call the Family Food Help Line at 1-888-436-6392 or reach out to basicneeds@cwu.edu.

Students working part time on campus qualify!

Students who work part-time on campus at 20 hours a week are eligible for Benefits! Apply using the link below, call 877-501-2233, or the Ellensburg DSHS office.

Apply for Benefits!

Need to show DSHS proof of employment?

When accessing SNAP benefits as a student, DSHS may ask for proof of employment which can be: 

  • 3 paystubs
    • Work on campus? Visit your MyCWU > Employee Tab > Payroll > View Paycheck

OR

  • A letter from your employer
    • We understand that this can be an intimidating task! In an effort to assist students in this, you can reach out to basicneeds@cwu.edu and our team will connect with Student Employment and connect with your supervisor directly. 
    • Don't know what to include in the letter? Utilize this template

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