by Joshua Boardman, Basic Needs Coordinator

In October 2020, New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo announced expanded eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to more than 75,000 college students statewide who face food insecurity. The goal of expanding eligibility for SNAP is to prevent food insecurity for students who are advancing their education.

The restrictive requirements of SNAPs initial rollout resulted in many students being ineligible for benefits. The new eligibility expansion reduces stress for those who have to choose between food and continuing their education.

SUNY Empire offers coursework toward the updated program requirement, however, the final decision for program eligibility is determined by a SNAP benefits administrator. Coursework falls under strict categories and is specific career and technical education, as defined under the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006.

Visit the New York SNAP Application website to find local contacts and additional information about SNAP. In the meantime, please review the information below, and contact your local benefits administrator to determine eligibility.

Determine if you qualify based upon income:

SNAP Eligibility Income Requirements

Expanded SNAP Eligibility Requirements for Students:

Students must be engaged at least half-time in a career and technical education program, remedial course, basic adult education, literacy, or English as a second language, which are available within SUNY’s free Online Training Center, Educational Opportunity Centers, and Advanced Technology Training and Information Networking labs.

SUNY Empire State College coursework that may apply:

Certificates	Advanced Certificates	Associate Degrees
Business & Environmental Sustainability Entrepreneurship Healthcare Management Manufacturing Management	Leadership in Sustainable Development	Business, Management, & Economics Community & Human Services Labor Studies

Start your application process by heading over to mybenefits.ny.gov today!