The nuts and bolts of applying for food assistance programs in Michigan.

Note: In Michigan, WIC is administered by the Department of Community Health; SNAP by the Department of Human Services. Participation in one program does not affect eligibility for the other.

WIC

Contact the local health department to schedule an appointment.  Required documentation at the first visit includes personal identification with proof of address and proof of income.  Acceptable documents include a Medicaid card, two recent pay stubs or a W2 for yourself or the head of the household. Enrollment in Medicaid may also serve as proof of income.  Pregnant women should bring a physician’s note indicating due date.

Note: In Michigan, WIC program staff will continue working with an obviously  pregnant woman whose physician paperwork is delayed.

To effectively provide health and dietary recommendations to applicants, WIC staff obtain and record information including the applicant’s weight and height. A blood sample is also taken to check hemoglobin levels for signs of anemia.   Applicants considered high risk, based on WIC program guidelines, may be referred to a registered dietitian for additional nutritional counseling. 

• Participants receive a WIC Bridge Card, which operates like a debit card.
• Initial WIC certification insures eligibility for six months. Pregnant clients are certified for the duration of their pregnancy plus an additional six weeks. After delivery, new mothers are required to visit the WIC clinic for recertification and to add the infant to the program. Children are re-certified every six months.

SNAP

Michigan’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as FAP (Food Assistance Program) is administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS), which has offices in every county of Michigan.

The FAP application requires proof of identity and address, social security number, proof of income, and any documentation that helps verify expenses. Like many states, Michigan has an online FAP application, which can be submitted electronically, via mail, fax, or at a DHS office.

A normal application is processed in 30 days. If applicants have less than $150 in monthly gross income or $100 in liquid assets, an expedited application can be processed in seven days. Participants receive a monthly food allotment, loaded onto a Bridge Card.  This functions like an ATM or WIC card, and can be used at FAP-licensed grocery stores. Unless a change in income or household status occurs, certification is good for one year. On request, DHS will send FAP eligibility information to schools so that children receive free or reduced cost meals.