If you know someone who needs help getting food stamps (also known as SNAP, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), you might be asked to write a letter of support. This letter helps show that the person is struggling and needs assistance. Writing a good letter can be super important, so let’s talk about how to do it right. We’ll cover what to include and how to make your letter as helpful as possible. Remember, the goal is to help the person get the support they deserve!
What Should the Letter Actually Say?
So, what exactly should you put in a letter of support? The most important thing is to be honest and clear. You’re not making up a story; you’re telling the truth about the person’s situation. Think about what you know about their struggles, their financial situation, and their need for food assistance. You should clearly state in the letter that you know the person, and you are aware of their need for help with food.
You should also explain how you know the person. Are they a friend, a family member, or a neighbor? How long have you known them? This helps the people reading the letter understand your relationship and the context of your observations. This part helps give weight to what you’re writing.
Next, describe the challenges the person is facing. Be specific! Instead of just saying “they’re having a hard time,” try to give concrete examples. This makes the letter more impactful and believable. Some examples might include:
- Loss of a job
- Unexpected medical bills
- Difficulty paying for rent or utilities
- Limited access to transportation for shopping
Remember, the more detail you can provide, the better. Don’t be afraid to write about the reality of the situation so that the person gets the support they need.
Gathering Information Before You Write
Before you start writing, it’s important to gather some information. Talk to the person you’re supporting. Ask them what they would like you to include in your letter. Make sure they are okay with you sharing their information with the government. Ask them about their current situation, and any specific hardships they’re facing. It’s not always easy to talk about these situations, so make sure they know you’re there to help.
It might be helpful to ask them about:
- Their financial situation (income, expenses)
- Specific difficulties they’re experiencing (e.g., not having enough food, struggling to pay bills)
- Any recent changes in their life that have impacted them (e.g., job loss, illness)
The more information you have, the more complete and helpful your letter will be. You can also offer to help the person collect any supporting documents they might need. This can include things like bank statements, pay stubs, or medical bills. Offering to assist with this can be a huge help to them.
Here is a quick look at the types of questions you can ask, in a table:
| Category | Example Questions |
|---|---|
| Financial | What is your current income? What are your monthly expenses? |
| Difficulties | What are you struggling with the most? |
| Recent Changes | Have there been any recent changes in your life? |
Starting Your Letter
Your letter should start with a proper greeting and introduction. This includes the date, the recipient’s address (usually the local SNAP office), and a clear subject line. The subject line could be something like: “Letter of Support for [Person’s Full Name]”. Make sure you include the recipient’s address to keep the letter organized and professional. Then, use a polite greeting, like “Dear SNAP Case Worker.”
In the first paragraph, state your purpose clearly. State that you are writing in support of the person’s application for food stamps. Briefly introduce yourself and your relationship to the person. For example, “My name is [Your Name], and I am a friend/family member of [Person’s Name]. I am writing to support their application for SNAP benefits.”
Keep your tone professional and respectful throughout the letter. This shows the caseworker that you are serious about helping the person.
Here is a quick outline of how to start:
- Date
- Recipient’s Address (SNAP Office)
- Subject: Letter of Support for [Person’s Full Name]
- Greeting: Dear SNAP Case Worker,
- Introduction: State your name, your relationship to the applicant, and the purpose of the letter.
Writing the Body of Your Letter
The body of your letter is where you share the details about the person’s situation. This is the main part of the letter, and where you need to provide concrete information. Use clear and simple language. Avoid jargon or complicated terms that the caseworker might not understand.
Describe the person’s situation honestly and accurately. Include specific examples of the challenges they are facing. The more detail you provide, the better. Avoid vague statements, such as “They’re struggling.” Instead, say something like, “They recently lost their job, and have been unable to find new employment.” Also, be specific about the need for food assistance.
You might also mention any efforts the person has made to improve their situation. For instance, are they actively looking for work or taking steps to manage their finances? This shows that the person is trying and deserving of help. Here are some other things to include:
- A brief description of the person’s living situation.
- Any physical or mental health issues.
- Any barriers they may face that make it difficult to get food.
Also, it is good to show that you are willing to support the person by helping them in any way possible. Be clear about how you can assist them as they attempt to get food assistance.
Adding Your Personal Perspective
In your letter, you can add your personal perspective. Share what you have seen or experienced, relating to the person’s struggles. Describe their character and their willingness to work to improve their situation. You can also provide examples of their need for help. It’s helpful to describe the person’s situation by including specific details.
For instance, if you’ve seen them skipping meals or struggling to buy groceries, mention it. This helps paint a clearer picture of their needs. If you know they’ve faced hard times, include it to show the impact it has had on their life. This helps the caseworker understand the whole situation, and see why the person needs help.
Here are some examples:
- “I’ve seen them skip meals to ensure their children are fed.”
- “They are dedicated to finding a job.”
- “They are always willing to help others.”
However, always be respectful of the person’s privacy. Only share information you are comfortable sharing and they have approved.
Closing Your Letter and Contact Information
The closing of your letter should be polite and reassuring. Reiterate your support for the person’s application. State that you believe they are deserving of SNAP benefits. Thank the caseworker for their time and consideration. You could say, “I believe [Person’s Name] is deserving of SNAP benefits and will use them responsibly. Thank you for your time and consideration.”
Include your contact information in case the caseworker needs to reach you. This typically includes your full name, address, phone number, and email address. Make sure your contact information is accurate and up-to-date. Finally, sign your letter with your full name and the date.
Here’s a quick checklist:
| Part | Include? |
|---|---|
| Closing Statement | Yes |
| Your Full Name | Yes |
| Address | Yes |
| Phone Number | Yes |
| Email Address | Yes |
| Signature | Yes |
Review and Final Touches
Before you send your letter, review it carefully. Make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors. Read the letter aloud to check for clarity and flow. Make sure the language is appropriate and professional. Check that the information you’ve provided is accurate. Correct any mistakes before you finalize the letter.
It is a good idea to have someone else read it over. Ask a trusted friend or family member to read your letter and give you feedback. They can offer a fresh perspective and identify any areas that could be improved. They can also confirm that the information you provided is clear.
Also, make a copy of the letter for your records. This will help you if you need to refer back to the letter later. It is good to have the letter ready to go in case there are any additional questions, or there is follow up required.
Here is a list of things to double check:
- Spelling and grammar
- Clarity of your message
- Accuracy of facts
- Professional tone
- Your contact information
Sending Your Letter
Once you’re happy with your letter, it’s time to send it. Make sure you know the address of the SNAP office or caseworker. Deliver the letter to the correct person or department. You can send the letter through the mail or, in some cases, you might be able to submit it electronically. Contact the SNAP office if you’re not sure.
If you’re mailing the letter, make sure you use the correct postage. Consider sending the letter with a tracking option, so you can confirm it was delivered. Keep a copy of the letter and any mailing confirmation for your records.
Before you send it, make sure to check:
- The correct address
- Proper postage
- If the office accepts electronic submissions
Sending a letter of support can make a big difference in someone’s life! So, keep in mind that your words can really help. Be honest, specific, and show that you care. Your support can help a person get the food they need. You are doing a great thing!