Arizona operates the food stamp program under the Arizona Department of Economic Security. However, the program is now called Nutrition Assistance. In 2008, the U.S. Congress changed the name of the Food Stamp Program to the Supplemental Assistance Program (SNAP), although each state has an individual name. The Nutrition Assistance (NA) program in Alabama handles all of the food and nutrition needs of low income families in the state. Research has shown that poor diets lead to serious health problems in adults and elderly individuals. Poor diets are also the result of impaired brain development in children and lead to deteriorated performance in school, which is why the NA program seeks to change the lives of the low income families who need food assistance. The Nutrition Assistance program is actually designed to allow low=income families to have access to more nutritious foods and create better diets for their families. You can find out more information about the NA program located here.
Like other states, there are eligibility requirements for using food assistance. You can find an application on the website for Arizona Department of Economic Security and even fill out an application online located here. You do need certain information before you apply, such as your social security number, income, employment and asset values. You can apply online, download and print an application or you can request a paper application from a local FAA office (see a list here). If you choose to fill out an application at home, you can submit by fax or go to your local Family Administration Office (see a list here).
An eligibility interview will follow up after your application has been received and processed. This interview seeks new information that determines your eligibility. You may be asked for additional information. The interview is conducted by telephone or mail. However, you will receive an eligibility decision by mail. You will receive a QUEST card if you are approved. The card will usually arrive before you receive the eligibility letter. Benefits are distributed to the card according to a schedule by the first letter of your last name. You can find out more about this schedule here.
To receive food stamps benefits, you have to go to a location that allows SNAP. You can find a SNAP retailer locator on the government's website. The locator will look up any location in your state and give you the address. If you have more questions about the food stamps program, you can call 602-542-9935 or 1-800-352-8401. You can also write to any location. All locations and addresses for the family assistance administration are located here.