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

Feature	Food and Nutrition Services (FNS)	TEFAP (Emergency Food)
Common Name	SNAP / Food Stamps	Food Pantry / Commodities
Format	Electronic money on a card	Pre-packed bags or boxes of food
Where to Shop	Grocery stores & Farmers’ markets	Local pantries (Common Heart, etc.)
How to Apply	Apply at DSS or online via ePASS	Visit a local pantry for certification
Income Limit	Varies by state guidelines	185% 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.