Empowering Vermont's Community College Students with SNAP Access

Understanding the Challenge

Earning a college degree is no easy feat, especially for Vermont students who have multiple responsibilities. They need to juggle school, jobs, and family while also ensuring they have enough food to eat. This can be a daunting task, but with the new policy, they now have more support.

As of October 1, 2024, Vermont's Department for Children and Families adopted a policy that eliminated the prohibitive work activity requirement for community college students seeking to gain eligibility for 3SquaresVT. This means that students can now focus on their studies without the added stress of meeting work requirements.

The Impact on Students

For CCV students, this policy change is a game-changer. If you're enrolled in a two-year associate degree or certificate program (excluding liberal studies students), you no longer have to meet the "student work requirement" to qualify for 3SquaresVT. Benefits are provided on an EBT card, which works just like a debit card, and can be used at grocery stores, farmers' markets, and even online.

National studies show that students attending community colleges are more likely to face challenges when it comes to getting enough food. In fact, nearly one in four students at community colleges struggle to afford groceries. This is an unacceptable reality, but with the new policy, these students now have access to the support they need.

CCV's Commitment

CCV, under the guidance of President Joyce Judy, has dedicated great attention and resources to the issue of food and basic needs security among students. The institution has created robust student resource centers at every campus, where students can access staple foods, a hot meal, and support from a trained peer mentor in navigating program applications like 3SquaresVT.

This is a best practice that is worth investing in. CCV is committed to ensuring that their students have the resources they need to succeed, both in the classroom and in life.

The Benefits for Vermont

This policy is a win for students, families, and Vermont's economy. By ensuring students have access to the support they need to stay healthy and nourished, they are better positioned to succeed in school and their future careers. No one should ever have to choose between food or books for class.

Vermont's Department for Children and Families is to be commended for adopting this common-sense policy. By making it easier for community college students to access 3SquaresVT, they are not only addressing the immediate needs of students but also contributing to the long-term success of the state's workforce and economy.

We encourage all CCV students to see if they qualify for 3SquaresVT. You may be leaving behind grocery money that you rightfully deserve. If you need support through the application process, call 2-1-1 and ask for 3SquaresVT assistance, text VFBSNAP to '85511', or visit vermontfoodhelp.com to learn more.

With this change, Vermont is leading the way in supporting community college students, ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed both in the classroom and in life.