Nutritional and Income Assistance for Needy Families

Arizona Department of Economic Security’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (which was referred to by the U.S. Congress as the Food Stamp Program prior to 2008), helps provide adequate nutrition for thousands of Arizona families. The U.S. Department of Agriculture establishes the eligibility for the SNAP program. Eligibility for benefits is based on resources, income, and other requirements such as residence, citizenship or eligible non-citizen status, and participation in the Department of Economic Security’s employment and training program.

Temporary Aid for Needy Families (TANF) provides temporary income to the neediest of Arizona families, provided that parent(s) participate in work activities and meet other requirements.  The TANF program also provides assistance to dependent children living with relatives or a legal guardian in order to provide the child with stability.