The Salem Pantry Offers Free SNAP Enrollment Assistance

SALEM, MA — The Salem Pantry is offering North Shore residents free Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) enrollment support in an effort to help individuals and families navigate the application process and secure benefits.

The Salem Pantry's trained staff offer one-on-one assistance in English and Spanish, making the process easier and more accessible.

"The process of applying for SNAP benefits can feel overwhelming, and we want to remove as many barriers as possible," said Ranfy Chavez Rosa, SNAP Outreach Coordinator at The Salem Pantry. "We are proud to provide support to ensure more of our neighbors have access to the program."

SNAP benefits can be used at grocery stores and farmers' markets, giving recipients more access to fresh, healthy food. In addition to monthly food assistance, SNAP recipients may also qualify for extra benefits such as free nutrition education classes and resources, utility discounts, free school meals, and discounted admission to many museums and cultural institutions across Massachusetts.

The Greater Boston Food Bank's 2024 statewide report on Food Equity and Access in Massachusetts said 82 percent of food-insecure households rely on SNAP benefits each month, and 59 percent of those families also use a food pantry.

The Salem Pantry encourages anyone interested in learning more about their eligibility to reach out for assistance here or via email to SNAP Outreach Coordinator Ranfy Chavez Rosa at ranfychavezrosa@thesalempantry.org.