College and Food Stamps

College Students on Food Stamps

By WKBW Admin

November 11, 2012 Updated Nov 12, 2012 at 7:52 AM EST
BUFFALO (WKBW) When you think of a food stamp recipient, the images of a single mother or someone on the unemployment line come to mind. Not necessarily that of a backpack-clad, greek-letter-wearing college student. But with the struggling economy and rising cost of education, some students have nowhere else to turn, and others are capitalizing on the system.
"Food is expensive and especially with the college meal plans being so high today, and the food isn't so good, I would recommend for somebody to get food stamps," college student Reggie Beneche said.

Each year, as food stamp assistance (now known as SNAP Benefits) is paid out across New York State, millions of dollars in benefits end up in the hands of college students; many who need it and some who simply don't.
The eligibility in Erie County for food stamps is income below twelve hundred dollars per month, or fourteen thousand dollars per year. That means a single household over 18 college student without a full time job qualifies.
There are additional restrictions, but what would stop students who choose to not buy a school meal plan, even if they can afford it, and instead go on food stamps?
"Is it possible for someone to opt out completely and then make the argument that they are eligible for food stamps, perhaps," Erie County Social Services Commissioner Carol Dankert said.