Taking advantage of all the resources and support available to you can increase your chances of completing college and starting a career that offers economic mobility for you, your family, and your community!
SNAP and STEP can help. These programs are designed to respond to meet the needs of all who qualify – anyone who is eligible will receive benefits.
STEP (SNAP Training & Employment Program)
STEP is for Oregon resident students eligible for SNAP who are pursuing a career focused program, building English skills or completing GED® tests. STEP students are provided coaching services focused on career and college readiness. Students develop a college and career plan to guide their education and career goals.
Financial assistance available for STEP eligible students:
Transportation (monthly bus pass or gas card)
Textbooks
Testing fees
Tools/equipment for your courses
Tuition/fees not covered by financial aid
Interested in joining STEP?
Call or email Jiang Fei Koch at (503) 338-2495 or jkoch@clatsopccc.edu to set up an intake appointment!
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
More college students than ever are struggling with hunger. SNAP (formerly known as food stamps) is a resource that can help. Students ages 18-49 who attend higher education at least half-time may be eligible for SNAP by meeting income guidelines and additional criteria.
* Students attending class less than half time and those age 50+ do not need to meet additional student criteria, only income, to qualify for SNAP.
Intended job – Students need to let Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) know what the student’s intended job will be after completing their education. DHS wants to understand the link between a student’s education and employment.
If students do not meet the requirements listed, there are more ways to qualify. Check out Partners for Hunger-Free Oregon for more factors affecting eligibility, or contact the local DHS SNAP office. 450 Marine Dr, Ste. 200 Astoria, OR 97103. Phone: (503) 325-2021
Applying for SNAP
Step 1: Complete an application. There are four (4) options to complete a SNAP application.
Option 2: Print and complete a SNAP application and turn it in at your DHS SNAP office. The SNAP office in Clatsop County is at 450 Marine Dr, Ste. 200 Astoria, OR 97103.
Option 3: Call a DHS SNAP office and have them mail you an application to complete and return. Phone for Clatsop County SNAP office: (503) 325-2021
Option 4: Visit a DHS SNAP office and pick up, fill out, and turn in a paper application.
Step 2: A SNAP eligibility worker will meet with you either in person or over the phone. Most offices are offering same day or next day service for interviews. You will need to provide:
Identification (such as a driver’s license)
Social Security numbers for everyone applying (original cards not required)
Proof of income for the last 30 days (such as check stubs)
For non-citizens, proof of the lawful immigrant status of household members seeking benefits
Step 3: Once you receive your SNAP EBT card, you will be provided with a brochure on how to use it to purchase food.
Additional Help & Resources
For assistance or questions about either program, please contact Jiang Fei Koch at jkoch@clatsopcc.edu.
Concerned about how SNAP could impact your immigration status? Know your rights and the facts! See Protecting Immigrant Families or Oregon Immigration Resource, or call the Oregon Law Center-Legal Aid Services of Oregon Public Benefits Hotline at 1-800-520-5292 for answers to your questions about public benefits and public charge.
Interested in other local resources? Check out the Emergency Local Resources for assistance with internet/technology, food, and housing.
CCC student services are available online! Check out Student Services for information about admissions, counseling services, registration services, and more.
