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Basic Living Resources

Food Resources
Federal Food Assistance Programs​
SNAP
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
WIC
Special Supplemental Nutritional Program for Women & Children
NSLP
National School Lunch Program
SBP
Summer Breakfast Program
SFSP
Summer Food Program
CSFP
Commodity Supplemental Food Program
TEFAP
The Emergency Food Assistance Program
SFMNP
Senior Farmers' Market Nutritional Program
FDPIR
Food Distrabution Program on Indian Reservations
Idaho Food Resources
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  • SNAP ( Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program )
    • Formally Known as: Food Stamps​
    • What is it?:
      • This is the largest federal food assistance program. It provides eligible low-income individuals and families with an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card to purchase food at authorized retail stores, farmers' markets, and online.
    • For: Low-income individuals and families.

Brief Guide to Applying for SNAP

The application process for SNAP is managed at the state level, so the exact steps can vary slightly, but the general process is the same everywhere.

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  1. Check Your Eligibility

    • Before you apply, you can use the SNAP Eligibility Pre-screening Tool to see if you might qualify. This is not an application, but it gives you a good idea: 

  2. Gather Necessary Documents

    • You will need to provide information and documents to verify your situation. Common requirements include:

      1. Proof of Identity: Driver's license, state ID, passport.

      2. Proof of Citizenship/Immigration Status: Birth certificate, passport, green card.

      3. Proof of Income: Pay stubs, a letter from your employer, or current tax returns.

      4. Proof of Residence: A lease agreement, utility bill, or mortgage statement.

      5. Social Security Numbers: For all household members applying for benefits.

      6. Proof of Expenses: Rent/mortgage receipts, utility bills, child care costs, and medical bills (if you are 60+ or disabled).

  3. Submit an Application

    • You must apply in the state where you live. There are several ways to do this:

      1. Online (Recommended): The fastest and most common way. You will apply through your state's dedicated benefits portal.

      2. In Person: You can visit your local Department of Social Services or Public Assistance office to get a paper application and receive help.

      3. By Mail/Fax: You can request a paper application be mailed to you, fill it out, and return it by mail or fax.

  4. Complete an Interview

    • After you submit your application, your state agency will schedule a phone or in-person interview. This is a mandatory step. The caseworker will review the information on your application and ask clarifying questions. Be prepared to discuss your financial situation.

  5. Receive a Decision

    • You will receive a notice in the mail informing you if you are approved and the amount of benefits you will receive. By law, most applications must be processed within 30 days. If you have very little income and need help immediately, you may be eligible for "expedited benefits" within 7 days.

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  • WIC ( Special Supplemental Nutritional Program for Women, Infants, and Children )
    • What is it?:
      • Provides federal grants to states for supplemental foods, healthcare referrals, and nutrition education for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, and to infants and children up to age five who are at nutritional risk.
    • For: Low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, and children under the age of 5.

Brief Guide to Applying for WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

The WIC application process is managed at the state or local agency level, often through clinics in your community. The general steps are consistent across the country.

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  1. Check Your Eligibility

    • To qualify for WIC, you must meet four main criteria:

      1. Categorical: You must be one of the following:

        1. A pregnant woman.

        2. A breastfeeding woman (up to the infant's 1st birthday).

        3. A postpartum (after pregnancy) non-breastfeeding woman (up to 6 months).

        4. An infant or child up to their 5th birthday.

      2. Residential: You must live in the state where you apply.

      3. Income: Your household income must be at or below the WIC guidelines, which are typically 185% of the Federal Poverty Level. Many states also allow automatic income eligibility if you or your family members participate in other programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF.

      4. Nutritional Risk: You must be determined to be at "nutritional risk" by a health professional at the WIC clinic. This is a simple screening done during your appointment.

  2. Schedule an Appointment

    • You cannot apply online from start to finish. You must contact a local WIC agency to schedule your first appointment.

      • This first appointment is often in-person, though some parts may be done by phone or video.

  3. Attend Your Appointment and Bring Required Documents

    • At your appointment, a WIC staff member (like a nutritionist) will check your documents, assess your nutritional risk, and provide nutrition education.

    • Bring the following for each person applying:

      • Proof of Identity: For yourself and your child(ren). Examples: Driver's license, birth certificate, passport, hospital crib card (for a new baby).

      • Proof of Residence: A document showing your current address. Examples: Utility bill, lease agreement, or driver's license with your current address.

      • Proof of Income: Recent pay stubs, a letter from your employer, or a tax return. If you are enrolled in SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF, bring your approval letter or benefit card as proof.

  4. Receive Benefits and Learn How to Use Them

    • If you are approved, you will receive:

      • Food Benefits (EBT Card): An electronic benefits card (like a debit card) loaded each month with specific amounts for nutritious WIC-approved foods (like milk, eggs, cereal, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and baby food).

      • Nutrition Education: Ongoing support and classes.

      • Breastfeeding Support & Referrals: Help from lactation consultants and referrals to other health and social services.

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  • NSLP ( National School Lunch Program ) 
    • ​What is it?:
      • Provides nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free lunches to children each school day. The program also supports the operation of non-profit breakfast, lunch, and after-school snack programs in schools and residential child care institutions.
    • For: School-aged children

Brief Guide to Applying for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)

The application process for free and reduced-price school meals is highly decentralized. It is managed by each individual school district, and sometimes by each school. There is no single national application.

 

  1. Understand How Eligibility is Determined

    • There are two main paths to eligibility:

      1. Direct Certification: Some children are automatically eligible and do not need to fill out an application. Families are directly certified if they participate in other means-tested programs, like:

        • SNAP (Food Stamps)

        • TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)

        • FDPIR (Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations)

        • Medicaid (in many states)

        • If a child is identified as homeless, migrant, runaway, or in foster care.

        • Your school district will notify you if your child has been directly certified.

      2. Household Application:

        • If your child is not directly certified, you must submit an application to your school district. Eligibility is based on your household income and size, using federal income guidelines.

  2. Get the Application

    • Applications are typically distributed in one of three ways:

      1. Directly from the School: The most common method. You will receive an application packet from your child's school at the beginning of the school year, often included in a "back-to-school" packet. You can also get one from the school office, cafeteria, or school counselor at any time.

      2. Online via the School District Portal: Many school districts now offer online applications through their website or a dedicated parent portal (like Infinite Campus, PowerSchool, etc.). This is often the fastest way to apply.

      3. By Request: You can always call your child's school or the district's food service department and request that an application be mailed to you.

  3. Fill Out the Application

    • The form is usually one or two pages long. You will need to provide:

      • Names of all household members.

      • Income for all household members (amount, frequency, and source).

      • The last four digits of the Social Security Number of the adult who signs the form.

      • Signature of an adult household member.

    • You only need to submit one application per household, even if you have multiple children in the same school district.

  4. Submit the Application

    • Return the completed form to your child's school, the district office, or submit it through the online portal. Do not return it to the USDA or the state—it must go to your local school authority.

  5. Receive a Decision

    • The school district will process your application and send you a written notice of your child's eligibility. This must be done within 10 operating days of receiving your application.

​​
  • SBP ( School Breakfast Program )
    • What is it?​
      • ​Operates similarly to the NSLP, providing cash assistance to schools to serve free, reduced-price, or full-price breakfasts to students.
    • For: School-aged Children

Brief Guide to Applying for the School Breakfast Program (SBP)

 

The application process for the School Breakfast Program (SBP) is identical to the process for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). Families submit a single application that determines eligibility for both free and reduced-price breakfast and lunch.

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  • ​SFSP ( Summer Food Program )
    • What is it?:​
      • ​Provides free, nutritious meals and snacks to children during the summer months when school is not in session. Meals are typically served at central sites like schools, parks, and community centers.
    • For: Children & teens 18 years and younger in low-income areas.

Brief Guide to SFSP for Parents & Caregivers

What is SFSP?
     The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) provides free, nutritious meals and snacks to children and teens 18 years and younger during the summer months when school is out. The goal is to ensure children continue to receive healthy food when they lose access to school meals.

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How to Get Meals:

  1. Find a Site: Locate an approved SFSP meal site in your community. These are often at schools, parks, libraries, community centers, churches, and camps.

  2. Show Up: Go to the site during its published serving times.

  3. Get a Meal: Any child 18 or under can receive a free meal at no cost and without any registration, application, or proof of income. Some sites may ask for a child's name or age for reporting purposes, but it is not required to receive a meal.

 

There are no eligibility requirements for the children themselves. The program is open to all children.

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Brief Guide to Applying for CSFP

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) works to improve the health of low-income elderly people by providing them with a monthly package of nutritious USDA foods. It is not an electronic benefits card like SNAP; participants receive a direct distribution of food.

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Important Note: CSFP does not serve everyone. It is specifically for:

  • Low-income seniors: Persons at least 60 years of age.

  • Income Eligibility: Household income must be at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level.

 

Some states may have waiting lists due to limited funding and food packages.

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The Application Process

The program is administered by state agencies (like the Department of Health or Agriculture) and then implemented through local agencies (like food banks, councils on aging, or senior centers).

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  1. Check Eligibility

  2. Locate Your Local Distributing Agency

    • Since CSFP is run locally, you must find the agency that manages the program in your city or county. This is the most critical step.

  3. Contact the Local Agency for an Appointment

    • You will likely need to call the local agency to schedule an intake appointment. They will tell you what documents to bring.

  4. Provide Documentation

    • At your appointment, you will typically need to provide:

      1. Proof of Age: Birth certificate, driver's license, passport, or other official ID.

      2. Proof of Residence: A utility bill, lease agreement, etc.

      3. Proof of Income: Recent pay stubs, Social Security award letter, unemployment benefits statement, or a signed form stating you have no income.

  5. Receive Food Packages

    • If approved, you will be told where and when to pick up your monthly food package.

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  • TEFAP ( The Emergency Food Assistance Program )
    • What is it?:​
      • ​Helps supplement the diets of low-income Americans by providing emergency food assistance at no cost. USDA purchases nutritious, high-quality foods and makes them available to state distributing agencies, which then provide them to local food banks, pantries, and soup kitchens.
    • For: Low-income individuals and families seeking emergency food assistance.

Brief Guide for Individuals & Families Needing Food

 

What is TEFAP?

  • TEFAP is a federal program that helps supplement the diets of low-income Americans by providing emergency food assistance at no cost. The USDA purchases nutritious, high-quality foods and makes them available to states. States then distribute this food to local agencies (like food banks), which provide it to the public through pantries, soup kitchens, and other sites.

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How to Get TEFAP Food:

  1. Find a Local TEFAP Distribution Site:

    • Locate a food pantry, mobile distribution, or other agency in your community that receives TEFAP food.

  2. Visit the Site:

    • Go to the site during its operating hours.

  3. Provide Information:

    • You may be asked to provide:

  4. Proof of Residence:

    • Such as a driver's license or utility bill to show you live in the area served by the pantry.

  5. Proof of Income or Self-Determination of Need:

    • Some sites may ask for income information, but many operate on the principle of "self-declaration," meaning you simply state that you are in need of food assistance. There is no formal national application form.

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Eligibility: Each state sets its own income eligibility criteria for TEFAP, which are often aligned with the federal poverty guidelines. However, many local distribution sites serve anyone in need who requests assistance.

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  • SFMNP ( Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program )

Brief Guide to Applying for SFMNP

     The Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides low-income seniors with coupons to purchase fresh, unprepared, locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs from farmers' markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs.

​

Important Note: The SFMNP is not a nationwide program. It is implemented by individual states, tribes, or U.S. territories that receive federal grants. Not every state operates the program, and those that do may have limited funding, so benefits are often distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

​

The Application Process

The program is administered by state agencies, often the Department of Agriculture, Aging, or Health.

​

  1. Check Eligibility

    1. The core eligibility requirements are:

      1. Age: Typically, you must be 60 years of age or older.

      2. Income: Household income must not exceed 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

        • Some states also offer automatic income eligibility if you participate in another means-tested program like SNAP, SSI, or TANF.

  2. Locate Your Local Administering Agency

    • Since the program is state-run, you must find the agency that manages it in your area. This is the most critical step.

  3. Submit an Application or Register

    • The process varies significantly by state. Common methods include:

      1. Local Senior Agency/AAA: You may apply through your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) or a designated senior center.

      2. Mail-In Application: Some states have a mail-in application form available on their website.

      3. In-Person Registration: Many states distribute coupons at specific enrollment events at senior centers or farmers' markets.

      4. Automatic Enrollment: In some cases, seniors who receive other benefits like CSFP may be automatically enrolled.

  4. Receive Your Benefits

    • If approved, you will receive a set of paper coupons or an EBT-like card loaded with a specific dollar amount (e.g., $20-$50 per year) to use at authorized farmers' markets and farms.

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  • FDPIR ( Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations )
    • What is it?:​
      • ​Provides USDA foods to low-income households living on Indian reservations and to Native American families residing in designated areas near reservations. Participants can choose to receive FDPIR foods instead of SNAP benefits.
    • For: Low-income American Indian and Non-Indian Households residing on a reservation or in designated areas.

Brief Guide to Applying for FDPIR

     The Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) provides USDA foods to low-income households living on Indian reservations and to American Indian households residing in designated areas near reservations.

​

Key Feature: Participants can choose to receive FDPIR foods instead of SNAP benefits. You cannot receive both FDPIR and SNAP for the same household in the same month.

 

The Application Process

FDPIR is administered at the local level by Indian Tribal Organizations (ITOs) or state agencies. The application process is similar to SNAP but is handled directly by your local tribal agency.

​

  1. Check Your Eligibility

    • To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:

      1. Categorical: Be a member of a federally recognized American Indian tribe or a resident of a reservation that participates in FDPIR.

      2. Residential: Live in the service area of a participating ITO or state agency (on or near a reservation).

      3. Income: Meet specific income guidelines, which are set at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level.

  2. Contact Your Local ITO or Agency

    • This is the most critical step. You must find and apply through the agency that administers FDPIR for your specific tribe or reservation.

  3. Submit an Application

    • You will need to complete an application form provided by the local agency. This will likely require you to provide:

      1. Proof of Identity: For all household members (e.g., driver's license, birth certificate).

      2. Proof of Tribal Membership (if applicable).

      3. Proof of Residence: Such as a utility bill or lease agreement.

      4. Proof of Income: Recent pay stubs, an award letter for Social Security or unemployment benefits, etc.

      5. Social Security Numbers for all household members.

  4. Complete an Interview

    • You will likely have an interview with a caseworker to review your application and eligibility.

  5. Receive a Decision and Food Package

    • If approved, you will be notified and can begin picking up your monthly food package. The food is distributed as a package of nutritious, USDA-purchased foods.

 
 
​Idaho Food Resources
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​State-wide
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North Idaho

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North Central Idaho

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  • Grangeville Food Bank

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Southwestern Idaho 

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  • Boise Rescue Mission Ministries

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  • Emmett Valley Friendship Coalition (EVFC) Food Bank

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South Central Idaho

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  • Twin Falls Community Food Bank

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  • Jerome Food Bank (Helping Hands & Hearts)

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Eastern Idaho

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  • Rexburg Food Pantry

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  • Pocatello/Chubbuck Souper Kitchen & Food Bank

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Southeastern Idaho 

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  • Bear Lake Pantry

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  • Franklin County Community Food Bank 

FDPIR
SFSP
SBP
NSLP
WIC
SNAP
Idaho Food
CSFP
TEFAP
SFMNP
Clothing Resources
National Clothing Assistance
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Idaho Clothing Assistance
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State-Wide
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North Idaho
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  • The Salvation Army
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Southwestern Idaho 

  • Boise Rescue Mission Ministries

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North Central Idaho
  • LC Valley Clothing & Resource Center
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  • Moscow Community Clothing Swap & Free Store
    • ​This is a community-driven, pop-up event. Check local Moscow community boards on Facebook or the City of Moscow website for dates and locations.​

 

South Central Idaho

  • The Salvation Army 

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  • Twin Falls Community Closet                            ( Various Locations )

    • Often run by churches or community groups. Check with 2-1-1 or local churches like the Twin Falls Reformed Church, which has historically hosted a free store.

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  • Jerome Cooperative Parish 

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Eastern Idaho

  • The Salvation Army

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  • Community Closet 

    • Often associated with Madison Cares or local churches. Check the Rexburg community board or call the Rexburg Senior Center for current information.

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  • Teton Valley Community Closet

    • A community-driven resource. Check local Facebook groups or the Teton Valley News for locations and hours.

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Southeastern Idaho

  • The Salvation Army

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National Clothing Assistance
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Financial Utility Aid
Federal Utility Assistance
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  • Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

    • What is it?:

      • A federally funded program that helps low-income households with heating and cooling costs. It is the primary national energy assistance program.

    • What they provide:

      • Heating Bill Assistance: Helps pay for gas, electric, propane, oil, etc.

      • Cooling Bill Assistance: Helps pay for electricity for air conditioning.

      • Crisis Assistance: For emergencies like a broken furnace in winter or a utility shut-off notice.

      • Weatherization: Minor home repairs to improve energy efficiency (e.g., sealing windows).

    • How to Apply: LIHEAP is administered by states, territories, and tribes. You must apply through your local agency.

    • National LIHEAP Hotline: 1 (866) 674-6327

    • Online Referral: Use the LIHEAP Clearinghouse's "Find Your Local Office" tool:

  • The Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBC) > Now the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

    • What is it?:

      • An FCC program that provides a monthly discount on internet service and a one-time discount for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer.

    • ​What it Covers:

      • Up to $30/month discount on internet service ($75/month for households on qualifying Tribal lands).

      • A one-time discount of up to $100 for a connected device (laptop, tablet, or desktop computer from participating providers).

    • Eligibility: Based on income (≤ 200% Federal Poverty Level) or participation in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, FPHA, Veterans Pension, WIC, or Lifeline.

    • How to Apply:

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  • Lifeline Program

    • What is it?:

      • An FCC program to make communications services more affordable.

    • What it Covers:

      • A $9.25 monthly discount on phone, internet, or bundled services. (You cannot combine Lifeline and ACP on the same service, but you can have them on separate services).

    • Eligibility: Similar to the ACP (based on income or participation in federal assistance programs).

    • How to Apply:

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National Non-Profit & Network Resources

These organizations may offer direct assistance or connect you to local charities that do.

 

  • The Salvation Army

    • Services:

      • Local chapters often have "utility assistance" or "disaster relief" funds to help prevent shut-offs, especially during extreme weather. Assistance varies by location and funding availability.

    • How to Find Help:

    • Action: Call your local Salvation Army office and ask about utility assistance.
       

  • Catholic Charities USA

    • Services:

      • Local diocesan agencies often provide financial assistance to prevent utility disconnections.

    • How to Find Help:

    • Action: Contact your local office directly.

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  • Society of St. Vincent de Paul

    • Services:

      • Known for "home visits," volunteers provide emergency financial aid, including help with utility bills, based on local need.

    • How to Find Help:

    • Action: Find the conference for your city or town and call them.
       

  • Modest Needs

    • What is it?:

      • A unique non-profit that offers self-sufficiency grants to individuals and families who are working but face a sudden, unexpected expense that would otherwise push them into poverty.

    • What it Covers:

      • Can be used for a utility bill, a \car repair, or other critical, one-time expenses.

    • ​www.modestneeds.org

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  • Dollar Energy Fund

    • What it is:

      • A non-profit that partners with specific utility companies across the country to provide grants for customers in crisis.

    • How it Works:

      • You must be a customer of a participating utility company. The grant is typically a one-time payment applied directly to your account.

    • How to Find Help:

    • Action: Check their website to see if your gas, electric, or water utility is a partner.

 

 

Idaho Resources

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North & North Central Idaho

( Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Kootenai, Shoshone, Clearwater, Idaho, Latah, Lewis, Nez Perce )

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Southwestern Idaho

( Ada, Adams, Boise, Canyon, Elmore, Gem, Owyhee, Payette, Valley, Washington )

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South Central Idaho

( Blaine, Camas, Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, Twin Falls )

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Eastern Idaho

(Bannock, Bear Lake, Bingham, Bonneville, Butte, Caribou, Clark, Custer, Franklin, Fremont, Jefferson, Lemhi, Madison, Oneida, Power, Teton)

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Southeastern Idaho

  • (Same as Region 5, covered by SEICAA and CAP - Eastern Idaho)

  • See the agencies listed under Region 5 above.

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