Emergency Food Voucher Program

The Emergency Food Voucher Program is designed to provide immediate and temporary assistance to students facing food insecurity.  This program ensures that no student can choose between their education and their next meal.  By offering food vouchers, the program seeks to support students in need by granting them access to nutritious food, enabling them to focus on their academic and personal growth. By offering this support, the college reaffirms its commitment to the well-being and success of its students, ensuring they have the necessary resources to thrive academically and personally.

Program Administration & Objectives

The Wellness Center administers the Emergency Food Voucher Program. The office is responsible for reviewing applications, issuing vouchers, and providing additional resources or referrals to other support services as needed.

Objectives

  • To alleviate short-term food insecurity among students.
  • To support students in maintaining their academic performance by reducing stress related to food scarcity.
  • To promote student well-being and retention by ensuring access to essential nutrition.

Criteria for Eligibility

To qualify for the Emergency Food Voucher Program, students must meet the following criteria:

  • Demonstrated Need
    • Must demonstrate an immediate need for food assistance due to financial hardship.
    • Examples of financial hardship may include but are not limited to:
  • Family emergency impacting financial stability.
  • Sudden loss of income or employment.
  • Unexpected medical expenses.
  • Other significant and unforeseen financial burdens.
  • Enrollment Status
    • Must be currently enrolled as a full-time or part-time student at the college.
    • Must provide proof of enrollment (e.g., student ID, current class schedule).

Frequency and Duration of Assistance

  • Vouchers are intended for short-term, emergency use only.
  • Students may apply for assistance up to twice per academic term.
  • Each voucher is valid for a one-time use and has a specified value.

Application Process

  • Complete the Emergency Food Voucher Program application form.
  • Provide a brief statement explaining the need for assistance.
  • Submit any required documentation that supports the application (e.g., financial documents, medical bills, etc.).

Contact Information

For more information or to apply for the Emergency Food Voucher Program, please contact jjcfoodpantry@jjay.cuny.edu or visit the Wellness Center Rm. L67.00NB

Confidentiality

All applications and related information will be kept confidential and used solely to determine eligibility for the program.

1. What is the College Emergency Food Voucher Program?

The Emergency Food Voucher Program is a support initiative designed to help students facing food insecurity due to financial hardship.  It provides temporary food vouchers to ensure students have access to nutritious food, allowing them to focus on their studies.

2. Who is eligible for the food vouchers?

To be eligible, you must:

  • Demonstrate immediate need due to financial hardship, such as sudden loss of income, unexpected medical expenses, or family emergencies.
  • Be a currently enrolled full-time or part-time student at the college.

3. How can I apply for the food vouchers?

You can apply by:

  • Visiting the Food Pantry webpage.
  • Filling out an online application form available on the college’s website.
  • For assistance, contact the Wellness Center in Room L67.00NB

 4. What documentation do I need to provide?

You will need to provide:

  • A brief statement explaining your need for assistance.
  • Any relevant supporting documentation, such as financial documents or medical bills.
  • Proof of enrollment (e.g., student ID, current class schedule).

5. How often can I receive food vouchers?

Students may apply for assistance up to twice per academic year. Each voucher is intended for short-term, emergency use and is valid for a one-time use only.

6. How long does it take to process my application?

The processing time for applications may vary, but the Wellness Center aims to review and respond to applications as quickly as possible. For urgent needs, please contact the program director directly.

7. Is my application information confidential?

Yes, all applications and related information are kept confidential and are used solely for determining eligibility for the program.

8. What if I have additional needs or require long-term assistance?

The Emergency Food Voucher Program is designed for short-term relief. For additional or long-term assistance, the Wellness Center can provide referrals to other support services and resources.

9. Can international students apply for the program?

Yes, international students who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for the Emergency Food Voucher Program.

10. Where can I use the food vouchers?

The food vouchers can be used at Aladdin Campus Dining.  Details about the authorized locations will be provided when you receive the voucher.

11. What should I do if my application is denied?

If your application is denied, you can seek further assistance or appeal the decision by contacting the program director. They can provide guidance on additional resources and support options.

12. How can I learn more about the program?

For more information about the Emergency Food Voucher Program, you can visit the Wellness Center or check the college’s website.

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