ForwardHealth Partner Resources: Food Assistance
About the federal government shutdown
DHS is closely monitoring the current federal government shutdown. Our goal is to keep the public informed, especially our members who receive vital health and nutrition support and services.
Here is what FoodShare, WIC, and Medicaid members need to know:
- Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, November benefits for FoodShare members will be delayed. FoodShare benefits are 100 percent funded by the federal government. DHS is fighting to get November FoodShare benefits out to members. However, benefits will continue to be delayed. At this time, we are still waiting for the federal government's release of funds for these benefits. We are closely monitoring multiple lawsuits seeking to force the federal government to use emergency funds to get FoodShare members their November benefits. According to the decisions today made by federal judges, the federal government likely must pay for at least partial November FoodShare benefits during the government shutdown. November FoodShare benefits will continue to be delayed at this time as the court case continues. As soon as we have more details, we will share another update.
- For updated information about using FoodShare benefits right now and the latest information on when November benefits will be available, visit the FoodShare News page. Call 211 to find out about other sources of food assistance in your area.
- As of October 31, WIC benefits will be available throughout the month of November. You can continue to use your WIC benefits, attend WIC appointments, and do not need to take any action. Contact your local WIC agency with any questions.
- Medicaid and BadgerCare Plus members still have coverage to get the care and services they need. For updates, visit the Medicaid News page.
FoodShare
You’ve probably heard of food stamps or SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). In Wisconsin, we call the program FoodShare. The goal of this program is to stop hunger.
FoodShare handbook
Policy information about FoodShare eligibility and benefits in Wisconsin.
FoodShare forms and publications
Forms, guides, handbooks, publications, and videos about FoodShare, including translations.
FoodShare income limits
Income limits used to determine FoodShare eligibility.
FoodShare employment and training handbook
Policy information about FSET, including eligibility, referrals, and services.
FoodShare employment and training information webpage
Forms, guides, handbooks, and other publications about FSET.
ebtEDGE
If you receive FoodShare benefits, you can manage your electronic benefit transfer (EBT) account, or QUEST card, online through ebtEDGE.
ebtEDGE mobile app
Links directly to the app for managing FoodShare benefits.
ebtEDGE website
Links to the website for managing FoodShare benefits.
Other nutrition supports
DHS and other state agencies administer a number of other nutrition assistance programs.
To see an overview of all of these programs, visit the Food Support Resources webpage. Specific programs are also linked below for easy access.
Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC)
Provides nutrition benefits for mothers and young children.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program
Provides food to low-income households.
Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
Provides USDA foods to income-eligible households on Indian reservations and to Native American households living in designated areas near reservations.
Commodity Supplemental Food Program
Provides free monthly food packages to low-income adults 60 years or older.
Free and Reduced School Meals
Provides free and reduced price meals to children enrolled in participating schools. FoodShare automatically qualifies children for school meals.
Summer Food Service Program
Provides free, healthy meals and snacks to children and teens in low-income areas during the summer.