Financial Services
Food Stamps
The purpose of the Food Stamp Program is to alleviate hunger and malnutrition. This is to be accomplished by permitting low-income households to obtain a more nutritious diet through normal channels of trade by increasing the food purchasing power for all eligible households who apply for participation. The intent of Congress as expressed by the Food Stamp Act of 1977 was to promote the general welfare, and to safeguard the health and well being of the nation's population by raising levels of nutrition among low-income households. Its intent was also to help provide food in case of emergency and financial disasters.
What are Food Stamps?
Food Stamps are coupons that can be used like cash to buy food at any store that has a sign saying WE ACCEPT FOOD COUPONS.
What Can Be Bought With Food Stamps?
You can use Food Stamps to buy:
- Any food or food product for human consumption;
- Seeds and plants for home garden
You cannot use Food Stamps to buy:
- Alcoholic beverages;
- Tobacco;
- Hot foods;
- Pet foods;
- Soap or paper products
You cannot use Food Stamps to pay back grocery bills
Web page created by Michael McClelland at the Newport News Department of Social Services
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