Oh SNAP!
The Maverick Food Pantry has expanded its services to include SNAP program assistance. SNAP is a federally funded program that provides financial assistance for purchasing groceries to US citizens and qualified aliens. On this page, you can find more information about SNAP and even book a meeting with a graduate student worker to help fill out the application or answer any SNAP-related questions.
About SNAP
SNAP is a federally funded program designed to address food insecurity among US citizens and qualified aliens (such as green card holders and refugees) in low income households.
For students, you must also meet one student exemption such as working 20 hours per week. Other student exemptions can be found in the FAQ. Unfortunately, this program is not open to international students on a student VISA.
Our Services
The Maverick Food Pantry is committed to serving all UNO and College of Saint Mary students with application assistance for SNAP benefits. You can apply for SNAP benefits at the official DHHS iServe website or seek help from the Oh SNAP! branch of the Maverick Food Pantry. Appointments can be scheduled online or in person with our trained team members. It is not required to bring any documentation to your appointment, but it is recommended that you have general knowledge about your income and expenses such as rent and utilities.
Open Office Hours: Tuesdays and Thursday at the Milo Bailo Student Center (MBSC 112A) from 8:00am - 11:00am and 1:00pm - 3:00pm.
Scheduled Appointments: Monday - Friday from 8AM to 6PM
What's Next
After submitting the initial application and being approved, you may be required to send in proof of items. You will be contacted regarding what is specifically required or you can attach copies of verification with the application. This may include proof of:
- Income
- Expenses
- Resources
- Employment
- Disability
Note: Please do not submit original documents to DHHS as documents provided will not be returned
Why It Matters
In 2018, the Government Accountability Office found that just 31% of college students who meet SNAP income limits reported receiving benefits, while the other 69% of potential eligible college students received none. Students that are working and/or parenting are a large demographic that are SNAP eligible but may not realize it. Furthermore, SNAP helps with easing demand on food pantries, encourages nutrition, facilitates self-sufficiency, and provides economic stimulus.
How This Project Was Made Possible
The Maverick Food Pantry is partnering with the Foodbank for the Heartland to increase awareness, provide comprehensive information, and increase participation rates of SNAP in the incredibly diverse communities of Nebraska. The Foodbank for the Heartland oversees Nebraska's state SNAP Outreach Plan in contract with the Department of Health and Human Services
With this partnership, the Food Bank's SNAP Outreach team has trained the Maverick Food Pantry in assisting people with applications. Additionally, this partnership covers up to 50% of outreach activities and application assistance, allowing us to employ a graduate student worker.
