Citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau who are legally living on Guam can now apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, a type of food stamp benefit for low-income households, the Department of Public Health and Social Services announced in a press release.
The change is a result of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024, which was signed into law granting Compact of Free Association citizens access to public assistance programs, Public Health said in the release. In addition to SNAP benefits, citizens of the freely associated states have eligibility that now includes the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or TANF, and Supplemental Security Income, or SSI.
"Access to nutritious food is essential for every family's well-being, and DPHSS is working hard to ensure that SNAP benefits are granted to eligible COFA families. I encourage all eligible COFA citizens to apply," Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero said in the release.
As part of the changes, Public Health has made available new SNAP applications and a change report.
“If a COFA citizen is already in a SNAP household but was previously ineligible due to COFA status, the head of household can submit a change report to add that member - if all other requirements are met. The Bureau of Economic Security will verify immigration status using the Systematic Alien Verification Entitlements program,” Public Health said.
To apply, FAS citizens will need to submit the following documents along with the application:
- Valid passport
- I-94 form (must not be expired if it has an expiration date)
- Social Security card
Applications can be submitted in person to Public Health or through email at the following addresses: