More Resources

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the federal food assistance program and the first line of defense against hunger. SNAP benefits are deposited onto a “Bridge Card” every month to be used for purchasing food items at most grocery stores, convenience stores, and farmer’s markets.

Resources:

• Apply online at Michigan.gov
• Use this online calculator to find out if you may be eligible for SNAP benefits.
• General Asset Test Handout 
• Information about Retirement Accounts

Need help signing up for SNAP?

• Reach out to Food Gatherers if you want to schedule an in-person appointment for application assistance. We can also help answer questions if you’re doing the online application yourself. Call 734-761-2796 and ask for Rolanda, or email snap@foodgatherers.org
• Call or visit the Department of Human Services (DHS) (1-855-275-6424 or 22 Center St., Ypsilanti, MI 48198).
• Contact local agencies (list below) for help with your application.
• Call the Food and Other Resources (F.O.R.) Helpline managed by the Food Bank Council of Michigan (1-888-544-8773)
• Visit Michigan Legal Help for more resources to help you apply or information about denial or termination of benefits.

Partner Agencies with Regular Assistance Hours (more online here):

Ypsilanti

Hope Medical Clinic, appt. only, 734-484-2989

Ann Arbor

Bryant Community Center, appt. only, 734-477-0292, 3 West Eden Ct.

Saline

Saline Area Social Services, appt. only, 734-429-4570

Chelsea

Faith in Action, appt. only, 734-475-3305

Chelsea Senior Center (serves all ages in Chelsea School District) by appt. for one-on-one help, 734-475-9242; walk-in Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m.⁠–4:00 p.m.

Milan

Aid in Milan, appt. only, 734-439-8420, 89 W. Main St.

Manchester

Manchester Community Resource Center, appt. only, 734-428-7722

South Lyon School District (includes parts of Novi, Northville, New Hudson, Wixom, Northville & Green Oak Twp.)

Active Faith, Monday, Wednesday & Thursday, 10:00 a.m.⁠–5:00 p.m., 248-437-9790

Important Note: If you schedule a meeting or plan on visiting a site to sign up for benefits, please bring as much of the following documentation as possible. If you do not have the necessary documents, the application process may be delayed.

• Proof of identification and immigration status
• Social Security numbers for all members applying
• Proof of income (before taxes) for the last 30 days for all member applying
• Proof of housing and utility expenses
• Proof of Unearned Income (Social Security, retirement, disability, child support, etc.)
• Proof of medical expenses
• Proof of childcare/dependent care costs

Double Up Food Bucks gets you more fruits and vegetables when you spend your SNAP Bridge Card dollars at participating farmers markets. For example, if you spend $10 from your Bridge Card at a participating farmers market, you will receive another $10 to buy fresh fruits and vegetables grown in Michigan. Learn more and find participating locations here.

The Washtenaw County WIC office provides supplemental nutrition support for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, infants, and children up to five years of age.

Basic needs and human services: Michigan 2-1-1 is a free service that connects people with essential human services — including elderly services, family support, and displaced workers. Simply dial “2-1-1”, call 866-953-HELP, or text your zip code to 898211.

Domestic Violence: SafeHouse Center provides safety, support, advocacy, and resources for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence and their children. Call 734-995-5444 for help.

Emergency financial assistance:  Barrier Busters is a group of 90+ social service agencies committed to improving services for Washtenaw County residents in need. Funds are available to prevent evictions and utility shut-offs, and assist with emergency costs that threaten housing and financial stability.

Housing and homelessness: Housing Access for Washtenaw County (HAWC) is Washtenaw’s central intake for individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. For housing assistance, information, and/or referrals, call 734-961-1999.

Mental Health Services: Community Mental Health offers 24/7 phone services and mobile crisis services to any Washtenaw County Resident. Call 734-544-3030.

Mutual aid: The Washtenaw County Mutual Aid + Resources Facebook Group is available to offer and ask for resources/needs to be met and to share information in the spirit of mutual aid.

Pet food assistance: Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) Bountiful Bowls program assists Washtenaw County and Plymouth residents with pet food. Apply for assistance online or call HSHV at 734-662-4365.