UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Nationally, food and housing insecurity issues continue to be a challenge for college students and can lead to impacts on students’ academic success and mental well-being. At Penn State, a team of representatives including individuals from Student Affairs — which includes Student Care and Advocacy and University Health Services — Residential Dining, IT, and the Lion’s Pantry are collaborating to broaden support for students who are eligible to receive federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Beginning May 31, Penn State will accept SNAP benefits at Market East, located in Findlay Commons on the University Park campus.

Najee Rodriguez, president for the University Park Undergraduate Association, who has helped in the effort to gain federal approval for SNAP benefits to be accepted on campus, said providing a location on campus eases a burden for students. “It can be a barrier for students to have to walk downtown to get food, or other far areas, especially if they’re already struggling with academics, other jobs or extracurriculars,” he said.  

“We are beyond excited to receive approval to accept SNAP benefits at Market East, as we continue to work to support our students to be successful in their academic pursuits,” said Jim Meinecke, interim director of residential dining. “This adds to the resources we already have at Penn State, such as nutrition counseling, financial counseling and support, food pantries and so much more.” 

SNAP eligibility 

SNAP, a federal government program, aims to provide supplemental nutrition benefits and budgetary assistance to purchase food for those eligible for the program. Generally, students enrolled at least half-time in an institution of higher education have historically not been eligible for SNAP benefits unless they meet certain exemptions. However, the Consolidated Appropriations Act in January 2021 temporarily expanded student eligibility until 30 days after the United States government announces an end to the public health crisis related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Beginning Jan. 16, 2021, SNAP eligibility was temporarily expanded to two new types of students who either are eligible to participate in state or federally financed work-study programs during the regular school year or have an expected family contribution of zero in the current academic year on the FAFSA. Students who meet one of the new two criteria, or any of the traditional criteria, may receive SNAP benefits if they meet all other SNAP eligibility criteria.

Students can check their SNAP eligibility by going to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s website and the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services website.

“SNAP benefits can help you cut costs and decrease the amount of financial pressure you face. It’s life-changing for a lot of people, and it’s necessary. College students should be learning about SNAP benefits and enrolling, utilizing these services to help make college more affordable,” said Rodriguez, who himself has been helped by SNAP benefits. “A lot of students don’t think they’re eligible to apply, even though they’re well within the guidelines. This project will make it even more possible for students to enroll and to find financial relief.” 

For eligible Penn State students across the commonwealth, Natahsha Baumgartner, student insurance advocate and manager of student support services in University Health Services, is ready to help navigate the SNAP benefits application process from start to finish.

“Students may not know that SNAP benefits are an option for them,” Baumgartner said. “But I think the COVID-19 pandemic has helped bring attention to such programs. At Penn State, we are continuing to work to provide innovative services to our University community and to improve the promotion of government programming, such as SNAP benefits.”

While the future of SNAP benefits eligibility for students remains unclear after the public health emergency ends, students may still qualify based upon certain exceptions to the traditional eligibility standards. Students may receive SNAP benefits if they have young children, have a disability, are working 20 hours a week or more or are in school less than half time, among other exceptions.

Penn State remains committed to helping students understand various University, state and federal assistance programs. In addition to assisting students in applying to SNAP benefits, Baumgartner works with students to understand their options regarding rent, internet and more.

SNAP benefits on campus

Beginning May 31 at Market East, both students and members of the local community may buy fruits and vegetables, dairy products, breads and cereals, beverages and more with their SNAP Benefits EBT card. Market East, located on the first floor of Findlay Commons, offers a selection of convenience food and drink options along with freshly baked items from Penn State Bakery.

According to Anna Barone, director for Student Care and Advocacy, this is another step in helping students feel more food secure.

“If students are dealing with food or housing insecurity, they could feel inclined to skimp on food,” said Barone. “But if they don’t have what they need when it comes to good nutrition and wellness, it can manifest in their classes.”

Barone shared that Penn State offers a student emergency fund for those dealing with immediate financial impacts and expressed that programming like SNAP benefits, student aid and other systematic supports can work together toward students’ long-term well-being. 

“If students feel food secure and have their basic needs met, they can get more out of the college experience,” Barone said.

Moving forward, University leaders and the Task Force on Housing and Food Insecurity continue to advocate for the extension of SNAP benefits for students beyond the pandemic, for affordable student housing in campus communities and an expansion of the eligibility for Federal Pell Grants.

If you have experienced housing or food insecurity, or another challenge with accessing essential resources, the University encourages you to learn more about the resources that are available and to reach out for support.