Washington Basic Food Program offered at DSHS' Ellensburg Community Services Office

Helps low-income individuals and families obtain a more nutritious diet by supplementing their income with Basic Food benefits. Monthly benefit amounts vary based on the number of people living in the household, income, and living expenses such as rent, mortgage, utilities, childcare and child support. Provides an ATM/debit-like card used to access food benefits to eligible low-income households.   Food Stamp guidelines are as follows:   1. Exempt goods that may not be purchased with food stamps:

• Cigarettes
• Pet food
• Non-edible household items
• Alcoholic beverages
• Food purchased at a restaurant

2. Time limits: Benefits do not expire and may be used at any time.   3. Expedited service: Households defined as destitute and having little net monthly income or resources may be eligible for expedited service, i.e. they may be able to pick up their benefits no later than the fifth day following application if they are eligible for benefits.   Disaster Food Benefits: DSHS can replace EBT benefits for recipients of Washington's Basic Food program if food was lost due to a declared disaster. For DSHS to replace the benefits, the customer must report the loss within 10 days from the date the loss occurred. DSHS will replace the value of the amount of food lost in the disaster, up to the total amount of the customer's monthly allotment of Basic Food.

Washington 211