Federal Benefits
Learn more about updates regarding federal benefits.
SNAP Resources
On Campus
Students who are experiencing food insecurity are encouraged to contact one of the following for assistance with resources, such as rereferrals to local food pantries and nutrition programs, follow-up to ensure ongoing needs are addressed, and assistance with navigating federal/state benefit programs.
Redbird Care Team
Share concerns about a student so the Redbird Care Team can reach out with care, support, and appropriate resources.
Student Navigator Access/Outreach
Student Navigators provide compassionate peer support to help students meet their basic needs.
Community
There is a wide variety of resources offered to students, faculty, staff, and local community members experiencing food insecurity and/or seeking non-food support. These resources are especially helpful to students when campus dining is closed or when confidential assistance is needed.
WIC – Women, Infants, and Children
This program provides supplemental foods, healthcare referrals, and nutrition education for low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and children up to age five. Please contact McLean County Health Department for local eligibility and enrollment support. You can find other offices throughout the state with the IDHS Office locator.
Food Banks/Food Pantries (TEFAP – The Emergency Food Assistance Program)
Find food pantries in our area at Eastern Illinois Foodbank and food pantries throughout Illinois at Find Food Illinois Map.
Community members are also encouraged to donate to local food pantries and food banks to help neighbors in need.
Economic Hardship Resources
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)
Administered by IDHS, TEFAP provides free nutritious foods to eligible Illinoisans through local pantries and soup kitchens.Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
TANF provides temporary financial assistance for families with children and pregnant women to help with food, shelter, and utility expenses.Utility Bill Assistance (LIHEAP)
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can help with home energy costs.Get Covered Illinois (Healthcare Coverage)
Illinois offers healthcare coverage for low-income individuals through Medicaid and All Kids.Application for Benefits Eligibility (ABE)
Allows you to apply for and manage medical and cash benefits online.Help Other Redbirds
You can help Redbirds in need in the following ways:
Make a financial gift.
Make a financial gift to Illinois State University’s Basic Needs Insecurity Fund. This will provide immediate assistance for Redbird students facing urgent food insecurity and other basic needs challenges.
Contribute to Basic Needs Insecurity Fund
Donate to the School Street Food Pantry.
Donate financially or donate high-demand food items directly to the pantry, including pasta, pasta sauce, soup, breakfast items, and easy or ready-made meals.