SNAP is a supplemental nutrition program that provides food to low-income residents. Oregon has the 3rd highest number of people, per capita, on SNAP compared to other states.
Why do so many Oregonians rely on SNAP benefits?
Oregon leaders say SNAP participation is high in Oregon due to effective outreach – the more people they have on SNAP or Medicaid, the more successful the state is, per them. (With that logic, If everyone was on SNAP and Medicaid, Oregon would consider this to be an even better success.)
Per AI assisted search, a family of 4 with an income less than $64,296 per year in Oregon qualifies for SNAP benefits. Income could be higher when income deductions – for housing, medical care, and so – are taken into account in determining “net income”. However, in order to qualify, assets must be very minimal.
The value of the SNAP food benefits could be in the $900 to $1000 per month range (but may be much less too). The amount varies widely depending on family size, income and what state the recipient lives in. Many recipients may receive far less than the amount indicated above and may require much lower income that shown above. Some states require some participants to work or seek work or engage in up to 80 hours of volunteer activity per month. (See this summary from AARP: How SNAP Works and Who Qualifies for Food Assistance)
Those who qualify for SNAP benefits may be eligible for other benefit programs: 9 Other Programs SNAP Recipients May Be Able to Get – Food Stamps Program. These benefits include:
- Additional food service programs including free school lunches
- Help with energy bills
- Free or reduced cost phone and Internet service
- Housing assistance
- Pell grants for college courses
- Legal advice and assistance
