COLUMBUS, OHIO – A new Oh SNAP mobile phone application has detailed information about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other food programs, not only for Ohioans receiving benefits but for those who think they may be eligible. It’s available for free on mobile devices through the App Store or Google Play.
“For anyone who relies on SNAP, or who knows someone who might need SNAP, this app is an excellent resource,” said Kimberly Hall, director of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). “It is user-friendly, comprehensive and available 24/7.”
ODJFS developed the app after receiving a Recipient Integrity Education grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service to develop a fraud prevention education and awareness program. States applying for the grants were encouraged to think creatively and to consider innovative ideas and approaches to providing timely and clear program information to prevent fraud before it occurs.
The Oh SNAP app has general information for families and individuals, including instructions for applying for SNAP, program rules and requirements, other sources of food assistance, low-cost recipes, a county JFS agency directory, an interactive map showing farmers’ markets that accept SNAP, and a link for reporting possible fraud. It does not provide access to case information.
ODJFS administers SNAP in partnership with county agencies. Households may qualify for benefits if their income is at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. In Ohio, recipients use an electronic benefits transfer or EBT card, known as the Ohio Direction Card, to buy unprepared food and food products.
