Good news for residents of the state of Vermont who receive SNAP benefits, under the state program called 3Squares-Vermont. Starting now, recipients of these funds will be able to purchase fruit and vegetable seeds and seedlings to grow food at home at more than 40 farmers markets across the Green Mountain State.
This program has been called “Crop Crash,” and it combines up to $10 of your 3Squares-Vermont benefits to purchase food seeds and seedlings.
How to Grow Food at Home with Vermont SNAP Benefits
The process to enjoy these new scopes of SNAP benefits is simpler than you imagine: if you are already a 3Squares-Vermont beneficiary, and you have an EBT card, you are already automatically covered by these new benefits. Then, the funds to use the Crop Cash system will be fully loaded into your balance.
You can use your 3Squares-Vermont funds (equivalent to food stamps, or SNAP benefits, available in all US states) to purchase fruits, vegetables, herbs, seeds, and edible seedlings. If you purchase eligible products, the value of Crop Cash dollars will double.
You Can Double Your Food Stamps With This Program
For example, if you spend $10 on eligible Crop Cash products, you’ll receive an additional $10 to purchase more eligible products. So, you’ll be buying $20 worth of fresh, local produce at the same farmers market.
Who is eligible for 3SquaresVT — SNAP benefits in Vermont?
Any individual or family residing in the state of Vermont, whose gross income is equal to or less than 185% of the Federal Poverty Level, or who have children and receive VT Earned Income Tax Credit, may be eligible to claim SNAP benefits in this state.
You may also qualify if your income is above the limit but a person over 60 years of age or with a disability depends on you financially.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in VT?
If your application is approved, you will receive an EBT card where the benefits will be deposited every month, this in case of people under 65 years of age. Those beneficiaries over 65 years of age who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will receive 3SquaresVT benefits directly into their bank account.
You can apply through the official myBenefits portal or you can submit a physical form as follows:
- Print Form 202 or call 1-800-479-6151 to request a copy.
- Complete and sign it.
- Send it by:
- using the document uploader,
- mailing it to the address on the application, or
- dropping it off at a district office.
