Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) in North Carolina

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To determine if you are eligible for SNAP (known as Food and Nutrition Services or FNS in North Carolina), you must meet specific requirements regarding your household, income, and resources.

1. Basic Eligibility Criteria

You may be eligible for FNS benefits if you fall into one or more of the following categories:

  • Have no job or a low-paying job.
  • Are elderly (60+) or disabled and have a low income.
  • Are currently experiencing homelessness.
  • Receive other benefits like Work First Family Assistance (TANF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

2. Household Rules

Eligibility is calculated based on your “household,” which is defined by who you live and prepare meals with:

  • Household of One: If you live alone, are homeless, or have roommates you do not cook and eat meals with, you apply as a household of one.
  • Larger Household: If you live with others and prepare and eat meals together, everyone (including children and seniors) must be counted in the household.

3. Income and Resource Limits

FNS eligibility is based on a complex calculation of your household size, total income, and assets.

  • Income Limits: There are limits on the amount of money your household can receive monthly.
  • Asset Limits: There are also limits on “resources” (property and money you own), though you may still qualify if you own a home or a car.
  • Deductions: Case workers will look at your specific expenses, such as medical or shelter costs, to see if they can be deducted from your income to help you qualify.

4. Other Requirements

  • Residency: You must be a resident of North Carolina.
  • Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or have a certain legal status (undocumented immigrants are not eligible).
  • Social Security: You must have a Social Security number or have applied for one.
  • Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults without children may be required to work or participate in a work program to maintain benefits.

How to Confirm Your Eligibility

Because the calculation is complex, the state recommends that you apply even if you aren’t sure if you qualify. You can check your eligibility or apply through the following channels:

  • Online: Apply at ePASS.nc.gov.
  • In-Person: Visit the Union County Department of Social Services at 2330 Concord Avenue, Monroe, NC 28110.
  • Screening Help: You can contact More In My Basket at the Union County Center (704-283-3737) for an eligibility screening and help with the application process.

What is the difference between FNS and TEFAP?

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While both programs help families in Union County put food on the table, they work in very different ways. FNS (Food and Nutrition Services) provides you with a monthly electronic benefit to buy groceries at stores, while TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program) provides actual food items through local pantries.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the differences between the two:

1. What You Receive

  • FNS (SNAP/Food Stamps): You receive monthly benefits loaded onto an EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card. You can use this card at most grocery stores and many farmers’ markets to choose and buy the food your family needs.
  • TEFAP: This is a federal program that provides USDA-purchased food “commodities”. This food is distributed to local agencies like Common Heart or Loaves and Fishes, which then give it directly to people in need at no cost.

2. How to Apply and Access Benefits

  • FNS: You must apply through the Union County Department of Social Services (DSS).
    • Apply Online: ePASS.nc.gov.
    • In-Person: 2330 Concord Avenue, Monroe, NC 28110.
    • Phone: 704-296-4300.
  • TEFAP: You do not apply through the government; instead, you are “agency certified” by a local pantry.
    • Common Heart: Operates several evening pantries where you can receive nonperishable groceries once per week if you are TEFAP-eligible.
    • Loaves and Fishes of Union County: Provides food up to three times in a 12-month period for certified residents.

3. Eligibility Requirements

  • FNS: Eligibility is based on household size and income limits set by the state.
  • TEFAP: Eligibility is generally set at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level.
    • Automatic Eligibility: One of the biggest differences is that if you already receive FNS (Food Stamps), you are often automatically considered income-eligible for TEFAP and other nutrition programs like WIC.

Summary Table

FeatureFood and Nutrition Services (FNS)TEFAP (Emergency Food)
Common NameSNAP / Food StampsFood Pantry / Commodities
FormatElectronic money on a cardPre-packed bags or boxes of food
Where to ShopGrocery stores & Farmers’ marketsLocal pantries (Common Heart, etc.)
How to ApplyApply at DSS or online via ePASSVisit a local pantry for certification
Income LimitVaries by state guidelines185% of Federal Poverty Level

Helpful Tip: If you are struggling with food right now and cannot wait for an FNS application to process, your best resource is to contact a TEFAP-distributing pantry like Common Heart (704-218-9060) or Loaves and Fishes (704-960-1486) for immediate assistance.

For parents whose child has been diagnosed with Down Syndrome, the Google LM Notebook for Resources for Union County, NC residents

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suggests this 30-day plan. This 30-day plan focuses on immediate emotional support, medical navigation, and long-term financial security.

Days 1–7: Establish Support and Early Intervention

The first priority is connecting with other parents who understand your journey and initiating developmental care.

  • Connect with Peer Mentors: Contact the Family Support Network of North Carolina (FSN-NC). They specialize in peer-to-peer mentoring and parent support groups, providing a direct way to meet other families in similar situations.
  • Visit GiGi’s Playhouse Charlotte: This center offers a custom, research-based curriculum specifically for individuals with Down Syndrome from prenatal through adulthood. All programs—including those focusing on literacy, math, and motor skills—are free of charge.
  • Apply for CMARC: The Care Management for At-Risk Children (CMARC) program provides specialized care management for children ages 0–5. Registered Nurses or Social Workers can help identify your child’s specific needs, set goals, and link you to a “medical home”.
    • Contact: Union County Human Services Agency at 704-296-4300.

Days 8–14: Access Specialized Health and Education Resources

During this phase, focus on local clinics and libraries that provide specialized developmental tools.

  • Consult the WoMB Clinic: Located at Wingate University, the WoMB Clinic provides free infant development assessments and parenting support to help your baby reach important milestones. They also offer specialized services like pelvic floor therapy for postpartum recovery and lactation counseling.
  • Reach out to the Alliance for Children: This organization provides a continuum of programs for parents from birth until kindergarten, including “Circle of Parents,” where you can discuss the challenges of raising children with special needs in a supportive environment.

Days 15–21: Financial and Healthcare Planning

While your child is young, it is critical to initiate applications for programs with long waitlists or specific eligibility rules.

  • Join the Innovations Waiver Waitlist: The Innovations Waiver funds community-based services and supported living for individuals with I/DD, but the waitlist in North Carolina is currently 18,000+ people deep with a 7 to 10-year wait. Register your child immediately, regardless of their current age.
    • Innovations Waitlist Line: 1-833-780-2587
  • Open an NC ABLE Account: This tax-advantaged savings account allows families to save for a disabled child’s living expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Funds in an NC ABLE account are also legally protected from Medicaid recovery at death, a benefit that does not exist in every state.
  • Apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI pays monthly benefits to disabled children in households with limited income and resources.

Days 22–30: Caregiver Wellness and Community Engagement

Caring for a child with special needs requires maintaining your own mental health and utilizing local community supports.

  • Register for Caregiver Support: Join Trualta, a free online portal for Union County caregivers. It provides expert advice and a community space to help you manage potential burnout and learn about navigating chronic conditions.
  • Check the “Kindness Project” for Supplies: The Union County Library serves as a year-round collection point for the CMARC program. If your family is in need of basic material supplies like diapers or wipes, contact CMARC or visit the library to inquire about these resources.
  • Call the Special Health Care Needs Helpline: For ongoing questions about benefits or potential services, North Carolina offers a toll-free helpline specifically for parents of children with chronic physical, developmental, or behavioral conditions.
    • Phone: 800-737-3028
    • Email: CYSHCN.Helpline@dhhs.nc.gov

What is COBRA?

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COBRA, which stands for the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, is a federal law that requires employers with 20 or more employees to offer “continuation coverage” for group health plans. This allows employees, their spouses, and dependent children to keep their health insurance for a limited time after it would normally end due to specific life events.

How COBRA Works

  • Continuation of Benefits: The coverage provided under COBRA must be identical to the “core” or basic benefits you received while employed.
  • Fees: Unlike employer-sponsored insurance where the company often pays a portion of the premium, you are typically responsible for paying the full cost of the coverage yourself.
  • Duration: Coverage generally lasts between 18 and 36 months, depending on the nature of the qualifying event.

Qualifying Events

You may be eligible for COBRA if you lose your health coverage due to any of the following:

For EmployeesFor SpousesFor Dependent Children
Voluntary or involuntary job loss (except for gross misconduct)Job loss of the covered employeeAll events listed for spouses
Reduction in work hoursReduction in employee’s work hoursLoss of “dependent child” status under plan rules
Employee becomes entitled to Medicare
Divorce or legal separation
Death of the covered employee

How to Apply

  1. Notify Employer: You or a family member must inform the employer within 60 days of a qualifying event.
  2. Election Period: Once the employer notifies you of your rights, you have 60 days to choose to elect COBRA coverage.
  3. Risk of Loss: If you do not choose COBRA within this 60-day window, your medical coverage will end.

Important Note on Medicare

If you are transitioning to Medicare, it is important to know that COBRA is not considered coverage based on current, active employment. This means that even if you have COBRA, you must generally enroll in Medicare Part B within eight months of your actual employment ending to avoid late enrollment penalties. Furthermore, you are not entitled to a special enrollment period for Medicare once your COBRA coverage expires.

For More Information

  • Local Assistance: Union County residents can contact the Council on Aging in Union County at 704-292-1797 for help with Medicare and SHIIP counseling.
  • State Resources: Call the Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) at 1-855-408-1212 or visit ncshiip.com.
  • Federal Resources: Contact the Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) at 866-444-3272 or visit askebsa.dol.gov.

Do you have questions about what benefits you may qualify for?

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I’ve set up a tool here that can comb through the list of resources I have fed it and answer questions. Please try it out, even if you need to make up a need in order to help me test it. Click the link and ask a question in the chat about resources in Union County. The more specific, the better, and please send the results to charityawareness@commonheart.org so I can keep improving the tool.

Here’s what it suggested as a 30-day plan for a single mom with children who just lost her job:

Days 1–7: Immediate Survival and Basic Needs

  • File for Unemployment Benefits: Contact the NC Division of Employment Security immediately. Filing online is the fastest method, or you can call 888-737-0259.
  • Apply for Healthcare and Food Assistance: Use the ePASS portal (ePASS.nc.gov) to apply for NC Medicaid to restore health coverage for you and your children. Simultaneously apply for Food and Nutrition Services (FNS/SNAP).
  • Enroll in WIC: If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have children under five, contact the Union County WIC Service at 704-296-4893 for nutritional and breastfeeding support.
  • Access Immediate Food: For prepared meals, the Community Shelter of Union County dining hall provides three meals a day to anyone in need without certification. For groceries, contact Common Heart to inquire about mobile pantries or grocery delivery for families in financial need.

Days 8–14: Financial and Housing Stability

  • Seek Crisis Assistance: Contact the Union County Crisis Assistance Ministry at 704-225-0440. They provide emergency financial aid for mortgage, rent, utilities, and personal care items.
  • Manage Utility Bills: If you are facing a family crisis related to heating or cooling bills, apply for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) through the Union County Department of Social Services.
  • Initiate Child Support Services: Visit the Child Support Services office at 1501 Charlotte Ave., Monroe, to open a case. This program helps custodial parents collect financial support to prevent children from entering foster care.
  • Establish a Support Network: Reach out to the Family Support Network of NC for peer mentoring and resource navigation to help manage the emotional stress of your situation.

Days 15–21: Childcare and Employment Preparation

  • Secure Quality Childcare: Contact Christ Our Shepherd (COS Kids) in Matthews. They specifically strive to empower and advocate for the unique needs of single parents and provide quality Christian-based children’s programs. For broader referrals, contact Child Care Resources, Inc..
  • Register with NCWorks: Start your job search by using NCWorks.gov for assistance with resume building, career exploration, and finding training.
  • Utilize Library Resources: Visit a Union County Library branch to use their computers and internet for job searching. They also offer computer classes and specific assistance for job seekers.
  • Obtain Legal Advice: If you have concerns about your housing rights or government benefits, contact Legal Aid of North Carolina for free legal help in civil cases involving basic human needs.

Days 22–30: Long-term Strategy and Maintenance

  • Apply for Work First: Inquire about the Work First Family Assistance program. It provides short-term training and cash assistance based on the premise that parents have a responsibility to support themselves and their children.
  • Secure Maintenance Medications: If you have a chronic condition and no insurance, apply to HealthQuest for free prescription assistance or NC MedAssist, which serves uninsured residents at or below 300% of the federal poverty level.
  • Advocate for Your Child’s Education: If your children are school-aged, ensure they are enrolled in the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program to receive free nutritious meals every school day.
  • Manage Long-term Health: If you remain uninsured, look into the Matthews Free Medical Clinic or Community Health Services of Union County, which provide free primary care for low-income, uninsured residents.

Invitation to Celebrate Common Heart’s Getting Ahead and ESIP Graduates

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Greetings Neighbors Partners and Friends, 

We are excited to invite you to join us in celebrating the accomplishments of our latest Getting Ahead and ESIP (Economic Saving Incentive Program) graduates. This special event recognizes the hard work, dedication, and growth of individuals who have committed themselves to building a stronger future for themselves and their families.

Your partnership and support play an important role in making programs like Getting Ahead and ESIP possible, and we would be honored to have you celebrate alongside us.

Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, June 16th 2026
Time: 6:15pm
Location: Siler Presbyterian Church 6301 Weddington Rd, Matthews, NC 28104

During the celebration, graduates will share parts of their journey, reflect on what they have learned, and be recognized for completing the program. Dinner and refreshments will be provided.

We hope you can join us as we celebrate resilience, achievement, and the next steps toward stability and success.

Please RSVP HERE by June 10th 2026  

Thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to our community. We look forward to celebrating with you.

Best,

Detrina Little
Economic Empowerment Director
economicempowerment@commonheart.org
704-870-0012
Common Heart

Ask the AI: Where can children under 14 volunteer?

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I asked the Phils List AI: Where can children under 14 volunteer? The answer: For children under the age of 14 looking to volunteer in Union County, there are several wonderful organizations that welcome younger helpers, often alongside a parent or as part of a family group.

Here are five excellent resources for younger children to get involved in community service:

1. Bright Blessings

This organization is a top choice for families because it explicitly mobilizes community volunteers of all ages. Their mission is to bring joy and hope to homeless and impoverished children through various projects. Younger children can participate in age-appropriate tasks either on-site at their Matthews location or through projects that can be completed from your own home.

  • Location: 1150 Crews Road, Suite C, Matthews, NC 28105
  • Phone: 704-846-2329
  • Direct Link: BrightBlessingsUSA.org

2. Common Heart

Common Heart is a grassroots organization focused on eradicating food insecurity. They offer various volunteer roles, and their “Cupboard Ally” program—which involves delivering groceries to local families—is an activity where children can easily assist a parent or guardian. They also host the “Great Turkey Countdown” before Thanksgiving, which is a great seasonal family volunteer event.

  • Location: 116 Business Park Drive, Indian Trail, NC 28079
  • Phone: 704-218-9060
  • Direct Link: CommonHeart.org

3. Union County Library – Children’s Programs

While the Teen Advisory Group is for older kids, the library system is a great place for younger children to volunteer for local community initiatives like the “Kindness Project“. Younger volunteers can often help with organizing books or assisting with special events for younger children under staff supervision.

  • Location: Main branch at 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe, NC 28112
  • Phone: 704-283-8184
  • Direct Link: uclnc.org

4. Humane Society of Union County

For children who love animals, the Humane Society offers unique ways to help. While direct animal handling may have age restrictions, younger children can contribute by making pet toys or treat bags at home to donate to the shelter. This is a fantastic way for kids to use their creativity to support local animals.

  • Location: 4015 Waxhaw Hwy., Monroe, NC 28112
  • Phone: 704-283-9126
  • Direct Link: HSUC.org

5. Operation Reach-Out

This ministry focuses on helping people in financial crisis and relies heavily on community donations. Younger children can lead or participate in non-perishable food drives at their school or church to benefit “Joseph’s Pantry”. They can also help their families sort and prepare items for the “Finders Keepers” resale store.

Direct Link: OperationReachOut.org

Location: 1308 Miller St., Monroe, NC

Phone: 704-289-4237

Ask the AI: Where can I find affordable, walkable housing?

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I asked the Phils List AI: Where can I find affordable, walkable housing? The answer:

Finding affordable and accessible housing in Union County involves several specialized agencies that focus on rental assistance, homeownership, and support for specific populations. While “walkability” is not explicitly indexed, many of these resources are concentrated in downtown Monroe, which serves as a central hub for services and public transportation.

Here are the top five resources for finding affordable housing in the area:

1. Monroe Housing Authority (MHA)

The Monroe Housing Authority is the primary resource for quality affordable rental housing in Monroe and Union County. They manage 206 public housing units and administer 318 Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, serving low-income families, seniors, and residents with disabilities. Their main office is located at 504 Hough Street, Monroe, NC 28112, placing it within the city’s urban core.

2. Monroe-Union County Community Development Corporation (MUCCDC)

Founded in 1989, this non-profit agency is dedicated to helping Union County residents gain access to decent jobs and affordable housing. They specifically offer opportunities for low-income families to transition into homeownership and achieve economic self-sufficiency. They are located at 349 Franklin St., Monroe, NC 28111.

3. The Arc of North Carolina Housing

The Arc owns and manages affordable housing properties across the state specifically for adults (heads of household) with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) or severe/persistent mental illness (SPMI). They have developed over 342 residences, including apartments, duplexes, and group homes designed to provide greater independence than traditional institutional settings.

4. Union-Anson County Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity is a Christian non-profit that builds and sells homes to lower-income families in Union and Anson counties. In addition to new home construction, they are sometimes able to assist with urgent home repairs to help residents stay in their existing homes safely.

5. North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA)

This state-level agency provides a wide range of support for both renters and potential homebuyers. They offer low-cost mortgages and down payment assistance, finance the development of affordable apartments, and provide foreclosure prevention counseling. They also administer rental assistance contracts, including Section 8 and the Transitions to Community Living Voucher.

Additional Tips for Walkability: If walkability is a high priority, you may want to focus your search near downtown Monroe, as this area is frequently highlighted for its concentration of services, shops, and community centers like the Phil Bazemore Active Adult Center. You can also contact Union County Transportation at 704-292-2511 to see whether your potential housing location is served by local transit routes.

A Sample Union County Foster Youth Independence Blueprint

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Based on the known resources available in Union County, NC, the Phil’s List AI for Union County NC Resource Questions recommends for a high school graduate aging out of foster care in Union County, the next 30 days are critical for transitioning to independent living. This plan focuses on immediate safety, securing long-term resources, and establishing a path to employment.

30-Day Transition Plan

Days 1–7: Immediate Stabilization and Benefits

  • Secure Independent Living Support: Contact the Union County Department of Social Services (DSS). Division of Adoption and Foster Care, Child Welfare. Alisa Etters is the current Program Manager, Adoption and Foster Care. Phone: 704-296-4300 The division provides provides services for aging out fosters which are specifically designed to help youth transition out of the system.
  • Arrange Emergency Housing: If a permanent residence is not secured, contact the Community Shelter of Union County for temporary shelter and rehousing assistance.
  • Apply for Essential Benefits: Use the ePASS portal or visit DSS to apply for Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) and Medicaid to ensure immediate healthcare and food security.

Days 8–15: Career Readiness and Technology

  • Visit NCWorks Career Center: Head to the office at 1125 Skyway Drive
    Monroe, NC 28110 (Phone: 980-397-6400) to begin career exploration, create a professional resume, and access job training programs or look online at https://monroeworks.org/job-seekers/.
  • Apply for Work First: Request Work First Cash Assistance through DSS. This program provides short-term training and support to help young adults move toward self-sufficiency.
  • Secure a Computer: To aid in job searches and future education, apply for a low-cost laptop through E2D (Eliminate the Digital Divide). Students with economic need are eligible for subsidized devices.

Days 16–22: Long-Term Housing and Financial Literacy

  • Seek Affordable Housing: Apply with the Monroe Housing Authority for Public Housing or Section 8 vouchers. Management of these units is local to Union County.
  • Connect with MUCCDC: Reach out to the Monroe-Union County Community Development Corporation for help gaining access to affordable housing and learning financial management skills.
  • Enroll in “Getting Ahead“: Join Common Heart’s economic empowerment program to learn how to build resources and move out of the instability of poverty.

Days 23–30: Vocational Training and Stability

  • Utilize Goodwill Services: Beyond their retail stores, Goodwill Industries offers free career training in trades like construction and professional skill-building workshops.
  • Explore Vocational Education: Contact South Piedmont Community College (SPCC) for training classes specifically for the unemployed or underemployed to gain job-ready skills.
  • Ensure Identification is Ready: Apply for a replacement Social Security card if necessary, as a physical card is required for employment and most government services.

Top 5 Relevant Resources

1. Union County Department of Social Services (DSS)

  • Focus: Foster transition and essential benefits.
  • Services: This is the primary agency for “Independent Living Services for Foster Children.” They also process applications for Medicaid and Food and Nutrition Services (FNS).
  • Contact: 2330 Concord Avenue, Monroe, NC 28110; 704-296-4300.

2. Community Shelter of Union County

  • Focus: Emergency housing and food.
  • Services: Provides emergency shelter and three prepared meals a day in their dining hall for those in need. Their “Home Again” program can assist with furnishings once permanent housing is found.
  • Contact: 160 Meadow St, Monroe, NC 28110; 704-289-5300.

3. NCWorks Career Center – Union County

  • Focus: Employment and workforce readiness.
  • Services: A one-stop resource for job seekers to receive career counseling, assistance with resume building, and connections to local employers.
  • Contact: 1125 Skyway Drive, Monroe, NC 28110; 980-397-6400.

4. Common Heart

  • Focus: Food stability and economic empowerment.
  • Services: Operates traditional and mobile food pantries. Their “Getting Ahead” program focuses on building the eleven essential resources needed to move from poverty to stability.
  • Contact: 116 Business Park Drive, Indian Trail, NC 28079; 704-218-9060.

5. Monroe Housing Authority (MHA)

Contact: 504 Hough Street, Monroe, NC 28112; 704-289-2514.

Focus: Affordable rental housing.

Services: Manages Public Housing units and administers Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers for low-income residents in Monroe and Union County.