The purpose of the Food Assistance Program (formerly known as the Food Stamp Program) is to end hunger and improve nutrition and health. The Food Assistance Program (FAP) supplements the food purchasing power of low-income individuals and families. The FAP provides low-income households with electronic benefits they can use like cash at most grocery stores to ensure a healthy diet. The FAP provides crucial support to needy households and to those making the transition from welfare to work, and helps seniors with high prescription drug and medical costs. The U.S. Department of Agriculture funds 100% of this program. The state and federal governments share administrative costs. The Family Independence Agency (FIA) determines eligibility for food assistance. Generally, eligibility for food assistance depends on the financial situation of all members of the household group. All persons who live together and purchase and prepare food together are considered to be members of the same food assistance group. FAP benefits can be used to buy eligible food at any Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) authorized retail food store or approved meal provider.

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