Food Stamp Program

This program helps low-income families purchase food needed for good health.

Eligibility Requirements

• Resource limits (bank accounts, stocks, bonds, property, etc.)
• Income limits
• Citizenship/immigrant status requirements
• Able-bodied adults without dependents time limits
• Student requirements

To find out if you are eligible to apply for emergency assistance, please call the Department of Social Cervices Family Investment offices:

• In Hyattsville, call (301) 209-5000
• In Temple Hills, call (301) 316-7700
• In Landover, call (301) 909-6000

Utility Assistance

For help if you're having problems paying your utility bills, you can call the Department of Social Services' Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) at (301) 909-6300.

MEAP can help you with your heating bills if you are a renter or homeowner. It can also help eligible homeowners reduce the future costs of heating their homes by assisting them in having their homes weatherized. Individuals and families in need may also contact the nearest MEAP outreach office to request an application, or download the application (PDF):

• Catholic Charities, Forestville (301) 568-9529
• Department of Family Services, Hyattsville, (301) 699-2696
• Laurel Advocacy & Referral Services, Laurel (301) 776-0442
• Spanish Speaking Community, Hyattsville (301) 434-5055

How Do I Apply for Help?

When you contact the agencies or organizations listed above, an application will be sent to you. If you prefer, you may pick up an application at any Department of Social Services branch office. The main MEAP office is located at 6505 Belcrest Road in Hyattsville, Maryland. Please be aware that it will be your responsibility to:

• Send all required information with the application
• Contact your utility company if you have a past-due balance
• Continue to make all payments while your application is being processed
• Mail or drop-off your application at the designated DSS office or community outreach site.

What happens after I submit my application?

MEAP staff will process your application and make sure all required information has been submitted. Before you can be interviewed, you must have the following information:

• Proof of County residency
• Valid photo identification
• Social Security cards for all members of your household
• Most recent utility bills and/or disconnect notice
• Copy of your most recent lease agreement, rent receipt or mortgage statement
• Proof of total household income; wage stubs for the past 30 days, benefit letters or copies of your most recent benefit checks from DSS, SSA, VA or the Unemployment Insurance Program.

How much assistance will MEAP provide?

MEAP provides a one-time only grant and the amount of the grant will be based on your household income and the type of fuel you use for heating. If your application is approved for payment, your grant will be sent directly to your supplier to be applied to your heating bill. If your utilities are included in your rent, the grant will be sent to your landlord. You can receive this help only one time a year.

Who is eligible to apply?

• Elderly or disabled residents living on fixed income
• Low-income homeowners or renters who are recipients of Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), Food Stamps or Social Security (SSI)
• Low-income homeowners or renters who meet the income guidelines listed below:

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